Thomas H. Adams was appointed executive director of the American Coal Ash Association in early 2009, just six weeks after the billion gallon coal ash slurry spill in Kingston, Tenn.

He was engaged immediately serving as the voice of an industry new to him in many respects, while coordinating stakeholders to inform regulatory officials in Washington, D.C. about the nature of coal ash, its commercial value, and role in achieving the nation’s sustainability goals.
The ACAA was established in 1968. Today the association represents a multibillion dollar industry focused on recycling the materials produced when coal is burned to generate electricity. Mr. Adams leads both the ACAA, a 501(c)6 nonprofit trade group, and its educational foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. The ACAA’s membership includes electric power utilities, concrete and cement producers, building products manufacturers, engineers, architects, researchers, venture capitalists, and others with interest in coal combustion products.

Mr. Adams' 30 years in the concrete industry prepared him well for the challenges he faces as ACAA Executive Director. He has held key leadership posts for the American Concrete Institute, American Shotcrete Association, ASTM International, National Ready Mixed Concrete Association, and Michigan Concrete Association. He is a native of Detroit and attended Michigan's Wayne State University and Aquinas College studying Business Administration.