Tim Thomas BHS Class of '86: An Alumnus Inspiring Success in Construction and Architecture

In the heart of Baldwin County, pride emanates from every graduate of Baldwin High School, especially from those who have walked its halls since 1986. One such distinguished alumnus is Mr. Timothy Thomas, a licensed residential/commercial contractor and registered architect, whose journey from high school football and weightlifting to the architectural wonders of Tuskegee University is nothing short of awe-inspiring.  

His passion for construction was ignited during those formative years, laying the foundation for a remarkable career that blends athleticism, construction and architectural prowess. "My fondest memory of Baldwin High School is playing football and winning the Region in 1983-84," said Thomas, "Football taught us how to deal with adversity. Construction made me better at sports, and vice versa."

"My fondest memory of Baldwin High School is playing football during the sports day in 1983-84. Football taught us how to deal with adversity, and construction made me better at sports, and vice versa."

Guided by his father Otis Thomas Sr’s advice, Thomas embarked on a journey to Tuskegee University, a decision that would shape his destiny. Despite initial uncertainties about pursuing architecture, he found himself at the prestigious Robert R. Taylor School of Architecture and Construction Science, where his carpentry skills and architectural aspirations were nurtured. He had hopes of bridging interest in his father's construction business with architecture and his fondness for sports. Being the youngest of thirteen children, Thomas's competitive nature quickly earned him a spot at the forefront of any endeavor he pursued.

But when Thomas passion for working in the construction industry, lured him away from college during his junior year. He returned home to work for his father's construction company, which was established in the 1940’s. In 1992, Thomas was called to lead the company. He had to place his architectural dreams on hiatus. "I always had a mentality that whatever I start, I like to complete. So, with encouragement from my family, I returned back to Tuskegee University after 20 years, and I graduated in 2013. It's about never giving up."

He continued his studies even after successfully leading his father's construction company, which operates to this day even while Thomas proudly serves as the Director of Milledgeville Public Works."Sports is about pre-planning. You can't build a successful career if you don't have a plan of action," said Thomas, "I pre-plan everything, and that's what I gained from my coaches at Baldwin High School."

In December of 2023, Thomas completed his path to licensure, a lifelong goal of his. The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) data shows that as of 2022, only 2% of the 121,603 licensed architects working in the U.S. are black.  Through hard work, never give up attitude and trust in God, Thomas is a certified Georgia state licensed residential/commercial contractor and registered architecture in the state of Georgia.  Thomas is also one of the more than 50,000 architects that have an NCARB certificate, a professional credential that facilitates licensure across borders.  

He has coached football alongside Jesse Hicks and Thomas Lee, and beyond his professional achievements, Thomas takes pride in his family's success. His wife, Kim and daughter Courtney are also Tuskegee University alumna.  Kim completed her Bachelor of Business Administration degree at Georgia College & State University.  Their three children, Brandan, DeAndre, and Courtney have participated in Baldwin High School sports demonstrating excellence in their endeavors and embraced higher education achieving professional college degrees. 

Thomas is a member of several professional organizations to include America Institute of Architects (AIA), National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), Prince Hall Freemasonry, Alpha Phi Omega fraternity, and Alpha Kappa Mu honor society.  He is also a member of Tau Sigma Delta, a scholastic honor society that recognizes academic achievement among students in the field of Architecture and Allied Arts.  Mr. Thomas’ story is a beacon of inspiration for students at Baldwin High School, and his contribution to Milledgeville in multiple arenas makes him one of Baldwin County School District's most valued Distinguished Alumni.