As president of Thompson Thrift Construction, John is responsible for the overall direction of the company, including preconstruction, construction services and field operations. He founded Thompson Thrift with partner Paul Thrift in 1986. Since that time, the two men have expanded the business into a national full-service real estate development and construction company.

Under John's leadership, the company has grown into one of the Midwest's premier general contractors, building up an extensive portfolio of multifamily, institutional, commercial, retail, restaurant and industrial projects. During his career, John has been responsible for the construction of more than 400 projects. His direction of the company has resulted in several industry awards for quality. They include the Star Building Systems Outstanding Builder Award and Associated Builders and Contractors Award of Excellence.

He is a member of the National Association of Homebuilders Leadership Board and the Indiana Association for Community Economic Development. His professional affiliations also include the American Concrete Association and the Associated Builders and Contractors Association. He is an active member of the community and has served as the board president of the Terre Haute Children's Museum and a board member of the Boy Scouts of America. He holds a bachelor's degree in construction management from Indiana State University.