Ray Thomasson is a multitalented explorationist, researcher, leader and visionary. Beginning his career with Shell, Ray quickly rose through management in onshore and offshore exploration and geological research. Ray managed Shell’s Offshore Exploration Division using the first “bright spot” technology (1970-1972). In 1970, he developed synergistic teams and published the concept many years before it was adopted by majors. Ray headed up Strategic Planning for Royal Dutch Shell in London, and finished his Shell career as Chief Geologist. Ray became president and CEO for two independent companies before moving to Denver and founding Thomasson Partner Associates, Inc. in 1991. TPA has found fields in Idaho, Illinois, North Dakota, Colorado, Utah, Wyoming and Alabama. The largest is Cave Gulch Field, a TCF gas field in the Wind River Basin, Wyoming. TPA made the first oil and gas play discovery in Idaho. Ray has served as AAPG President and is a member of the Foundation. He has served AGI as President and was the first Chairman of its Foundation. AAPG honored Ray with its Michel T. Halbouty Leadership Award and AGI with the William B. Heroy Award. He has received Distinguished Alumni awards from the Universities of Missouri and Wisconsin.