James joined CEDA in 2023 to facilitate CEDA's growth into the Wisconsin market. As a lifelong resident of western Wisconsin, James received his undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and a master's degree in Community & Economic Development from Penn State's World Campus. James has twenty-five years of community and economic development experience in Wisconsin serving in various roles in both the public and private sector.

As the Vice-President of Wisconsin Operations, James is responsible for overseeing CEDA's community and economic development initiatives in Wisconsin to benefit rural communities throughout the state.