Jim provides leadership in the development and delivery of educational programs on topics such as: farm financial analysis, farmland leasing, market outlook, estate planning, personal financial planning and dairy management. He has a bachelor of science and master of education degree in agriculture education from the University of Illinois.

In addition, Jim has completed a six course financial planning curriculum through the College for Financial Planning, Denver, Colorado over a two year period to qualify to test to become a Certified Financial Planner and has earned Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation.

Jim is a member of:

• Illinois Extension Agricultural Association
• State Extension Professional Organization
• National Association of County Agricultural Agents
• National Extension Professional Organization
• Financial Planning Association
• Professional Organization of CFP's
• University of Illinois Alumni Association
• Epsilon Sigma Phi - Extension Honorary Fraternity, and Alpha Zeta
• Agricultural Honorary Fraternity