He earned a BM and MM (Theory and Composition) degrees from the University of Minnesota-Duluth and the University of Northern Colorado respectively. He also holds a Certificate in Performance (bass trombone) from DePaul University.

An active performer, Thomas has appeared extensively in North America, Europe, and New Zealand, and is one of the most sought-after bass trombonists in Chicago's recording studios, concert halls, theater pits and other live-music venues.

He has performed and recorded with a diverse array of talents including the Woody Herman Orchestra, the Frank Mantooth Jazz Orchestra, Aretha Franklin, Natalie Cole, the Colorado Symphony, Concertante di Chicago, the Ravinia Festival Orchestra, and others. His music has been performed and recorded by premier orchestras, big bands and chamber ensembles nationwide.

A lecturer at DePaul University since 1995, Thomas teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in jazz composition and arranging. He is also an instructor of tenor and bass trombone.