Fred Thomas, 1930-2016

The School of Engineering is saddened to learn of the passing of Fred Thomas, a student, academic and engineer who contributed to the life of the School for more than three decades.

Having gained his doctorate in engineering from Cardiff University, he went on to lecture across the spectrum of the subject at the institution from the late 1950s up until his retirement in 1987.

As a researcher, he contributed to a revolutionary glassmaking process that laid the foundations for modern fibre optic cables, whilst in his role as an air accident investigator he made discoveries that would permanently alter aircraft design.

He is survived by his sister, Auriol.