Raised on a registered Holstein farm in Delaware and having graduated with a degree in dairy science/genetics from The University of Tennessee, Jim's entire career has centered around Holstein cattle and Holstein breeders. After having spent 2 years as Dairy Extension/4-H Agent in Ohio, Jim spent 10 years working for the Holstein Association USA and 18 years as the Executive Director of HFS, Inc., the international marketing subsidiary of the HA USA.

As a Field Reprehensive for the HA USA, he worked with Holstein breeders in sire selection/mating and cattle marketing. For 5 years Jim managed the young sire progeny testing program of HA USA, sampling more than 250 young sires, several of which became very popular and graduated into AI companies in the US and other countries. As Executive Director of HFS, Inc., management of this for profit marketing subsidiary was Jim's responsibility. As a result of his involvement in international marketing, he has traveled to 30 countries, marketed over 16,500 Holstein heifers and bulls to 25 different countries.