Jim began his business career performing project management tasks in the engineering and construction industry. In this capacity, he supervised building construction trades and directed field construction work for steel mill facilities.
While managing large and complex construction projects, Jim gained skill in cost accounting, budgeting, financial projections and profitability. It was during this period that Jim went on to earn his Masters in Business Administration from the University of Pittsburgh.
As commercial activity in the steel industry and heavy construction subsided in the 1980’s, Jim used his business and financial skills to start his own [franchised] professional practice specializing in management and tax counseling services. As a leader and high performer in this group of franchisees, Jim developed and presented a workshop titled, “Profit Improvement”. This is where Jim began to develop his facilitation skills. After 20 successful years in this business, Jim sold his franchise.
Currently, Jim owns and operates a rental property company with 15 residential and 20 commercial units. As a successful and respected businessman, Jim is a frequent guest speaker at community organizations.
Jim’s public speaking skills, facilitation skills, management experience and deep knowledge of accounting and finance made him a perfect candidate to become an Excidian Associate. He is certified to teach the Basic and Intermediate business finance courses. In the classroom, Jim’s personality and enthusiasm for teaching have made him an effective and respected facilitator.