James joined the Governor’s Council on People with Disabilities in February of 2007, as a Program Specialist. He began his career, at the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission, in 1997 as an Employer Services Specialist. Previously he worked with Franklin County Ohio Jobs and Family Services (for over four years) helping people on public assistance, to obtain the necessary training and motivation to acquire employment. James earned his Bachelors degree (in Psychology) from East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina and a Master of Arts degree (in Rehabilitation Counseling) from the University of Kentucky. James has also worked in the private sector with various companies (a background primarily in Sales and Marketing). James is an experienced speaker and trainer; utilizing this skill for both professional and personal pursuits. He has facilitated and created numerous presentations and work shops for employers, ORSC staff, and consumers seeking employment. James has formed many working collaborative relationships with Human Resource professionals that enable him to share important strategies which are beneficial to employers in their efforts to enhance their diversity initiatives.