ASTM Awards Dr. Margaret Thomson

Words: Dan Kamys ASTM Awards Dr. Margaret Thomson

??

ASTM International Committee C12 on Mortars and Grouts for Unit Masonry has recognized Margaret Thomson, Ph.D., director of New Business Development, Technical Services, at Lhoist North America in Fort Worth, Texas, with the ASTM Award of Merit and accompanying title of fellow. The Award of Merit is the highest organizational recognition for individual contributions to ASTM standards activities.

??

Committee C12 cited Thomson, a member of ASTM International since 1996, for her exceptional leadership and commitment to standards development for the committee, especially in the area of historic mortars. In addition to her work for C12, where she currently serves as a member at large, Thomson is vice chairman of Committee C07 on Lime and chairman of Subcommittee C07.06 on Physical Tests. C07 has honored her with two Awards of Appreciation for her contributions. She also works on Committees C01 on Cement, C15 on Manufactured Masonry Units and E60 on Sustainability.

??

Thomson joined Lhoist North America (formerly Chemical Lime Co.) as technical manager of Chemstar Type S Hydrated Lime in 1996. She was promoted to technical director, Western Sales Division, in 2009, and received her current title in 2011. Before Lhoist, she was a research scientist focusing on performance of lime-based mortar for masonry at the National Research Council Canada’s Institute for Research in Construction. Thomson received a B.Sc. with honors and a Ph.D. in geology from the University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.

??

In addition to ASTM International, Thomson is a member of the Canadian Standards Association, the Masonry Society, the American Concrete Institute and the International Union of Laboratories and Experts in Construction Materials, Systems and Structures (RILEM).

The Cornerstone of Craftsmanship: Nurturing Masonry Talent Through Competition
May 2026

In the evolving landscape of skilled trades, masonry stands as a testament to enduring craftsmanship and dedication. Yet, the question of how to cultivate and showcase this vital expertise remains paramount. While the bright lights of national competition

There’s the Typical Way to Brace a Wall. And Then There’s a Better Way.
May 2026

Wall bracing is one of the most important safety considerations on any masonry jobsite, yet it is often treated as a task that happens after the wall is built. Crews return, equipment is brought in, and time is set aside to secure walls that have already

Why Coordinated Material Supply Matters in Modern Masonry Construction
May 2026

The Advantages of Single-Source Supply in Modern Masonry Construction Masonry construction has evolved significantly over the past several decades. While brick and mortar remain the defining elements of masonry walls, the assemblies behind them have beco

Remembering Harry McGraw
May 2026

The masonry industry has lost one of its great teachers and craftsmen with the passing of Harry Edward McGraw, who died April 26, 2026, in Houston, Texas, at the age of 93.