William M. (Bill) Thomas

Bill Thomas rose to prominence as one of the most influential members of the United States House of Representatives.

Thomas was born in Idaho in 1941 but grew up in Southern California. He earned a Bachelor's Degree in political science from San Francisco State University in 1963 and a Master's Degree in 1965.

While a professor at Bakersfield College, Thomas made a successful run for the State Assembly in 1974. He was elected into the House of Representatives by California's 22nd District in 1979.

Thomas served in Congress for 28 years, advancing to the lofty position of Chairman of the influential House Ways and Means Committee. He announced his retirement in 2007 at the conclusion of the 109th Congress.

Thomas was instrumental in obtaining federal funding for the modern terminal constructed Meadows Field, Kern County's regional airport. Opened in 2006, the facility was named the William M. Thomas Terminal in his honor.