At a young age, Jim learned the value of hard work, faith and family. At age five, his first business was selling popcorn out of a little red wagon, guided by his Dad, who would pass when Jim was ten. Jim then moved to his uncle's South Dakota farm, where he learned how to harvest grain and operate a combine. Jim would later graduate from harvesting to driving truckloads of grain throughout the nation. This inspired Jim to start his own trucking business. Jim would later own and operate numerous companies, including building, construction, and pool maintenance.

As a full-time single dad, Jim enjoyed the flexibility that being a business owner gave him while providing for his family's needs. He was also involved in, and continues to be, issues and causes related to bettering our children's lives.

Jim volunteers for his local church and other mission projects, advocates for parents in public policy, and is involved with the local Farm Bureau.

Jim enjoys spending his spare time with his wife, Joanie, children and grandkids. He also enjoys riding his Harley motorcycle with friends and fellow motorcycle club members.