While studying Aerospace Engineering at the University of Manchester, he immersed himself in satellite projects and placements with space companies. But before completing his Master's degree, he made an unexpected decision: to undertake a simple summer side-project helping students into the space industry, which led him to found an AI start-up."
The experience taught him how to turn an idea into a product and what it takes to build a business. It also gave him an important insight.
"I realised the best technology companies are built on deep technical expertise. I wanted to become the kind of engineer who understands complex systems from the ground up."
That search for experience led him to SSTL.
Today, Thomas is an AIT Lead Engineer, trusted with integrating and testing spacecraft that will one day leave Earth. Working alongside colleagues with decades of experience, he has quickly taken on responsibilities that challenge him technically while helping to deliver real missions.
What he enjoys most is the variety.
"No two days are the same. One day I'm coordinating integration activities, the next I'm solving technical problems with specialists across multiple disciplines or preparing hardware for environmental testing. There's always something new to learn."
Outside work, Thomas enjoys helping friends and family understand what the space industry really does, proving that spacecraft engineering isn't nearly as mysterious as many people imagine.
His story is also a reminder that there is no single route into the space industry. What matters is curiosity, the willingness to learn, and an environment where experienced engineers are prepared to invest in the next generation.