Richard Thomas

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT RICHARD THOMAS

I left Monmouth School in with a plan to save the world. I studied Engineering, then Geography and Geology, at Durham University. I had a long standing belief that the world must react to the threat of Climate Change. I thus became a champion of Renewable Energy technologies, in particular Offshore Wind and Tidal Power. In Engineering I used Mechanics and Fluid Mechanics to improve the efficiency of Wind and Hydro turbines. In Geology I worked on Environmental Hazard detection. In Geography I pioneered Digital Mapping, using topographic information and digital photographs, from a dry valley in Gran Canaria. I studied Physical Geography and Geomorphology, Human and Economic Geography, and Geographical Information Science. I saw the potential for Remote Sensing to create a global digital map of the entire Earth, and for satellites to carry an Internet signal. I worked with the Computer Science department to introduce file sharing and online classroom software. I developed my vision for the Internet and a networked society of digital devices. I began to develop an economic and social plan for the UK and abroad, based on investment in renewable energy, ports, and manufacturing. Redevelopment based on improved transport, logistics, vehicles, products, and architecture. The transition to a net zero carbon economy. I also played sports, played guitar and sang in a rock band,\"Mint\", and worked for Trevelyan College JCR. Following illness in 2003, I worked in temporary jobs. I indulged my love of the Marine Environment, as a crew member with HM Bark Endeavour, and as a warden with Cardiff Harbour Authority. I worked in Health, Hospitality, Retail, and Manufacturing. I also spent time playing rugby, football, squash, golf, cycling, volunteering, and gardening. I enrolled at Cardiff University in 2005 with the aim of completing my BSc. My dissertation used new techniques in Marine Digital Information. I created an interactive digital map to present and search for potential locations for Tidal Energy in the Bristol Channel. I spent a summer placement working on an EIA for a tidal turbine. I also learnt to scuba dive, and engaged in a marine science project in the Red Sea. My work at Cardiff gave birth to the Marine Renewable Energy industry, which has now become a part of the curriculum at Cardiff and beyond, and accepted into the UK Government Energy Strategy. I now make guitar music as \"Mint Biscuit\". My music has gained acclaim and airplay around the world.