James is a native of Northeast Missouri and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from University of Central Missouri. Since entering the investment and financial planning industry in 1990, James has earned three professional designations to include Certified Fund Specialist (CFS) and Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC). His certifications were awarded through the American College in Bryn Mawr, PA.
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His transition to build an independent wealth management firm in 2010, allowed James to better serve his client's needs under the highest level of fiduciary standards in the financial services industry. He is an active member of the Financial Service Professional Society (FSP) where he has served as President, board member on the Business Ethics Award Steering Committee and Chairman of the Board Election Committee. James has also served on the board of Directors and Investment Committee for the University of Central Missouri Foundation. He is a published author, has been selected to receive multiple FIVE STAR Wealth Manager™ Rewards He was also recognized in the January issue of KCB Magazine and is on the 2006 list of "The 10 Most Dependable" Wealth Managers of the Central Region as shown in the November 2006 addition of Southwest Airlines Spirit Magazine.