Mark Thomas was indentured into the Iron Workers Union Shopmen's Local 527, Pittsburgh, in 1980.  He later joined Local 3, Pittsburgh, as an apprentice in 1983. Since then, he has worked in every phase of the ironworking industry, including as an organizer in 2003, business agent between 2005 and 2008 and as business manager, with Local 3, until his transition to the IMPACT team in August 2013.  Notably, Mr. Thomas has in-depth experience in project management and estimating, having worked at the Chemsteel Construction Company in Canonsburg, Pa., between 1998 and 2003.

Mr. Thomas also has an eye for marketing, leveraging IMPACT RAB grants to improve upon an award-winning marketing campaign for Local 3 which begun under their previous business manager. The success of the marketing campaign has positioned Local 3 as one of the most recognized building trades locals in the Western Pennsylvania area.

According to Mr. Thomas, “I always look forward to having the opportunity to really meet and discuss issues and problems with Contractors. As one of the few business managers elected after coming out of Contractor supervision, I have a unique understanding of the issues we face as an industry.”