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

Los Angeles Council of Black Professional Engineers Logo
Los Angeles Council of Black Professional Engineers
Soroptimist International of Long Beach Logo
Soroptimist International of Long Beach
Greater Los Angeles African American Chamber of Commerce Logo
Greater Los Angeles African American Chamber of Commerce
African American Board Leadership Institute Logo
African American Board Leadership Institute
DemoChicks Logo
DemoChicks
National Association of Minority Contractors Logo
National Association of Minority Contractors

Awards & Honors

Robin on the Move

Financial Literacy within Black Community (Wealth Management)

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Flowing Ministries of Hope Book Signing
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Wealthy Women Experience hosted by Deborah Fleming Bradley (November 12–14, 2025)
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DemoChicks 5th Anniversary Scholarship Presentation
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Women in Trade event hosted by the Port of Long Beach (November 20, 2024)
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Swearing-in ceremony for Long Beach Board of Trustees members: Dr. Enette Morton and Vivian Malauulu (December 18, 2024)
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Annual Ms. Single Mom's Conference (April 19, 2025)
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