Jim grew up around agriculture helping his grandfather farm from the time he was young. He graduated from Michigan State University in 1993 with a B.S. in Agri-Busness. He began his career with Michigan Foundation Seed in 1995 as the Warehouse Manager, and joined MCIA when the two organizations merged in 1997. He was promoted to Foundation Seed Operations Manager shortly after the merger where he held the position for 23 years. As of January 2020, Jim took over as Manager of the association where he brings his forward his knowledge and experience of the seed industry. Jim has since taken an active role in steering the organization to streamline its processes to increase efficiency and quality in the lab, field and seed divisions. He also plays an integral part in identifying and distributing new varieties to seed producers and actively promotes the associations products and services.
When not at work, Jim enjoys his quiet rural life where he spends time with his wife, Marion and his two sons, Curren and Brett. He still farms with help from his sons where he grows oats, wheat, corn and soybeans. He also is actively engaged in his son’s athletic events and spends time with them in the woods and on the water when possible.