Meet Robin S. Thorne
entrepreneur
engineer
leader
philanthropist
barrier breaker
Robin's Journey
Robin S. Thorne’s fearlessness to redefine what a woman should traditionally do is admirable. From her success, there are many lessons to be learned. As a single mother, she was determined to make a better life for her and her son. She put herself through college majoring in Engineering at the Community College of Philadelphia. She went on to earn a Chemical Engineering degree from Drexel University College of Engineering. After beginning her career in chemical engineering in Pennsylvania, she took a leap of faith moving to California to embark upon a career in the environmental, health and safety industry. She spent the next 10 years increasing her knowledge base and advancing in her career. In 2009, Robin established CTI Environmental, Inc. (CTI), an engineering and specialized construction firm. CTI has grown into an industry leading corporation with no signs of slowing down.
Robin has a passion for people and giving back. During her studies at Drexel University, she lead her peers in conducting science experiments for her son’s class. For many students, this was their first time seeing a woman of color so connected to science. She established a scholarship in her son’s name at the Community College of Philadelphia to aid graduating students that majored in technology and who are transferring to four-year universities. Her passion is helping women understand that they can do and be whatever they choose. She’s a global philanthropist facilitating workshops and seminars for women from America to South Africa. In 2019, Robin founded DemoChicks, a non-profit organization that empowers young women to become involved in nontraditional careers such as, construction, engineering, and demolition.
Robin has received numerous accolades over the years and is most proud of her induction into the Drexel University College of Engineering’s Circle of Distinction. Robin feels truly blessed that she has been able to accomplish so many things in her life and plans to continue looking for opportunities to grow, improve and serve others in her community.
Associations






Awards & Honors
- Drexel University - College of Engineering Circle of Distinction
- African American History and Cultural Foundation – Leadership & Service Award
- Soroptimist International of Long Beach - Woman of Distinction, Environment
- California Black Chamber of Commerce – Small Business of the Year Award
- American Business Women’s Association - Business Associate of the Year
- Community College of Philadelphia – Outstanding Alumni of the Year
- Long Beach Press Telegram – Amazing Women Finalist – Environment
- Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society, Inductee
- Afram Global - Villager Award
Robin on the Move






