Entrepreneur Engineer Leader Philanthropist Barrier Breaker

Smashing Stereotypes For Women In Non-Traditional Fields
0 + YEARS

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.

DemoChicks is a Robin’s self-founded non-profit organization that empowers girls and young women to pursue careers in architecture, construction, and engineering. Through programs, mentorship, and community support, it helps young women enter nontraditional STEM pathways—opening doors historically closed to them—with a mission to empower, elevate, and enlighten. Get involved by becoming a member, volunteering, or donating … read more

CTI Environmental is a Southern California engineering and specialized construction firm delivering single‑source solutions across Regulatory Compliance and Construction Management. Services include hazardous materials assessments (lead, asbestos, contaminated soils), Phase I Environmental Site Assessments, OSHA audits, training, and project controls—partnering with agencies like SCAQMD, Cal/EPA, and Cal/OSHA to ensure safe, on‑time projects grounded in honesty, collaboration, and community … read more

Awards & Distinctions

Associations

Robin On The Move

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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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