James was born and attended public schools in Chicago, Illinois.  Valedictorian in grade school, Bausch and Lomb science award in High School.

Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University.  Student President of American Society of Mechanical Engineers.  Member of Theta Xi social fraternity.  Commissioned Lieutenant in United States Air Force.

Flight Line Maintenance Officer with the Military Air Transport Service.  Served in Japan, Guam, Taipei, and Singapore.

Met and married Yukiko Honda and had three children and seven grandchildren.

Rocket engineer with North American Aviation developing the engines for Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles and the Apollo moon rockets.  Used computers to simulate the operation of these engines.

This background let to a series of technical and management assignments with several defense contractors including Rockwell, Grumman, Boeing, Northrup, etc. using computers for analysis and design of weapon systems.

Owned and operated sail and power boats up to 43 feet.  Took Power Squadron boating course.

Investment Advisor with the Securities and Exchange Commission.  Advised individual clients.  TV program on channel 22 Los Angeles which later became the Financial News Network.

Real Estate investment in homes, apartments and land

Obtained aviation flight certificates from the Federal Aviation Administration including twin engine aircraft, gliders, and flight instructor and is currently certified for flight.

The flight certificates led to career assignments in flight simulation including the Space Shuttle, fighter aircraft F-15 and F-22, aircraft carrier training T-45, Boeing 767, and submarine advanced attack systems.

Church council and treasurer.

Active in political education organizations.  Always votes.  Ran for Washington State Representative in 1984.

Widely traveled in North and Central America, Western Europe, Asia, and Turkey.

James has run two marathons, is a proficient skier, and has climbed major mountains on foot and on skis.  Plays golf and tennis.

Excellent physical condition and health.  Uses no drugs of any kind.

Currently married to Frances Postma.

Listed in Who's Who in the West 1986-1992/World 1992.