Jim joined the music faculty of Virginia Tech in 2015 as the director of the Highty-Tighties, the regimental band of the Virginia Tech Corps Cadets. Previously, he worked as a music educator in Queen Anne’s County, Maryland.  Prior to that Jim served 22 years as principal trumpet with the United States Naval Academy Band in Annapolis, Maryland. During his Navy career, Jim appeared numerous times as a soloist with the concert band. Jim also led the Annapolis brass quintet. Additional duties included leadership of the Ceremonial band, conducting countless ceremonies for dignitaries foreign and domestic. Jim continues to perform regularly in the area and has worked with the Roanoke Symphony, Richmond Symphony, Williamsburg Symphony and other regional ensembles.