Businessman, Army veteran, and former U.S. Senate candidate John James is an inspiring example of the opportunity available in America, the dignity of entrepreneurship, and the capitalist system that makes this opportunity possible. James joined the Adam Smith Society for a stimulating conversation on the virtues of free enterprise, how to increase opportunity for all Americans, and the biggest threats to the free-enterprise system today.
John James is president of James Group International, a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, and a former candidate for U.S. Senate for the state of Michigan. After graduating from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, John became a Ranger-qualified aviation officer and served with distinction in Operation Iraqi Freedom where he logged more than 753 combat flight hours, leading two Apache helicopter platoons. He earned a Combat Action Badge (CAB) and two Air Medals during his service. John earned a Master’s degree in supply chain management from Penn State University and an MBA from the University of Michigan. As President of James Group International, John grew his family business into a major trading partner with Michigan’s auto industry. John served on the Michigan Mobility Council and Veterans Trust Fund board, and currently serves on Detroit’s Workforce Development Council.