Charles H. Thornton: A Life of Elegant Solutions: A Memoir by Charles H. Thornton PhDPE with Amy Blades Steward

Charles H. Thornton: A Life of Elegant Solutions describes the inspiring life journey of renowned structural engineer, educator, and mentor Charles H. Thornton. Over the last 30 years, Thornton has engineered some of the world's tallest and most innovative structures. His memoir weaves tales of his humble beginnings in the Bronx, being mentored by his father, raising his four children, and Outward Bound adventures, with stories about acquiring and starting companies and designing projects around the world. Thornton shares his motivation behind founding the ACE Mentor Program, a national mentoring program committed to educating the next generation of architects, engineers, and construction professionals.

Thornton's mantra - "Passion, Persistence, and Flexibility" explains his success in disruptive innovation throughout his career - from engineering the pavilions of the 1964 World's Fair in New York City to creating the Petronas Towers in Malaysia. He reflects on his relationships with family, teachers, colleagues and friends who have helped shape his life and career. His 15-Steps to Success provide a step-by-step guide for business owners to plan and reach higher goals. Thornton inspires others to pursue their life's passion and seek their own elegant solutions with his upbeat approach to life and his zest for the pursuit of excellence and innovation.

Charles H. Thornton, PhD, PE, was a founding principal and formerly chairman of the structural engineering company Thornton Tomasetti. He has been an adjunct professor at The Cooper Union, Pratt Institute, Manhattan College, Princeton University, and Catholic University. Dr. Thornton founded the ACE Mentor program, a nationwide non-profit organization offering guidance and training in architecture, construction and engineering to more than 40,000 inner city high school students in 106 cities across the United States. He lives in Maryland with his wife.

Amy Blades Steward is founder of Steward Writing and Communications, a public relations firm in Easton, MD. Her company focuses on copy writing and editing services for non-profit and for profit companies, small businesses, and local governments. She has written non-fiction articles for national, regional, and local publications for over 30 years. Although a lifelong storyteller, this is Steward's first book. She lives with her family in Maryland.