Since the age of 10 Jim was into sports starting with track, transitioning to swimming, triathlon and then getting into long/extreme distance obstacle course races.  He graduated from Ramona High School in 2008 with a 3.5 gpa then went on to a career as a power lineman apprentice.  Every day he would find himself climbing to the top of 50 foot power poles, surrounded by high voltage live electricity while completing mathematical calculations in his head.  After a fall that resulted in a T 6 complete spinal cord injury he realized a need to change course and enrolled at Saddleback Community College taking prerequisites for mechanical engineering.  Encouraged by friends and family he focused on his fitness and sports activities.  Jim lifts weights, SCUBA dives and uses his mountain handcycle to go on hikes with friends.  He married his girlfriend Carrie who was admitted to the University of Oregon while he was admitted to nearby Portland State University in Mechanical Engineering.  He intends to go on and complete his masters as well.