New HAPI Leadership Announced

Effective May 1, 2026, Sara Thomas will join the Hawaii Asphalt Paving Industry (HAPI) as executive director. Thomas is a chemical engineer and Six Sigma Green Belt with more than 20 years of progressive industrial leadership experience. She is known for advancing sustainable work practices, strengthening stakeholder relationships, and driving measurable, data-informed improvements across complex organizations.

Her experience in Hawaii’s asphalt paving industry includes leading regulatory compliance programs for Grace Pacific Corporation and helping ensure the statewide supply of asphalt binder for Asphalt Hawaii. Her work has consistently balanced operational excellence with environmental responsibility and industry collaboration.

Guided by a lifelong commitment to bridging industry and education, Sara has developed award-winning employee training programs that translate technical knowledge into practical impact. She was recently honored with the President’s Volunteer Service Award for her contributions to MATHCOUNTS, an after-school program dedicated to building problem-solving skills and fostering enthusiasm for mathematics among middle school students.

As executive director, Thomas brings her technical expertise and passion for education to advance the organization’s mission. She is focused on strengthening industry partnerships, driving continuous improvement and inspiring the next generation of Hawaii’s infrastructure professionals. Interim Director Jon Young will serve as a senior advisor as she prepares to step into the role.