Jim has over 30 years experience developing complex instruments, machines & systems within small to mid-size high-technology firms. His experience includes a venture-funded corporate startup and a divisional startup. His direct influence helped three different companies transition from small, private enterprises to flourishing public corporations.

During his tenure at FARO Technologies, Jim served as CTO, General Manager and VP of Engineering while helping the company’s revenues grow from $36M to $209M from 2001 to 2008. As CTO, he encouraged the formation of a Merger & Acquisitions Team, which resulted in the green-field formation of the 3D Imaging Team in Greater Boston, which he led. To support FARO’s rapid growth, Jim led the development of a product release process based on the teachings of Dr. Steven D. Eppinger, Deputy Dean, MIT Sloan School of Management. Over the past two years, three of his global engineering teams released “best in class” 3D measurement products that will support FARO’s continued success.

In 1997, Jim joined venture-funded SMX as VP of Engineering and led the total redesign of the 4000/4500 Laser Tracker product family, resulting in a 400% improvement in MTBF. Following the departure of the CEO in late 1999, he co-led the company with the CFO and recast image of the company, which helped drive it to profitability with $15M revenue in 2000. Most importantly, he served as chief architect of the 5^th generation of Laser Trackers which captured the attention of FARO, a perfect suitor for SMX given their global sales force. Since early 2002, trackers have earned over $150M in high-margin revenue for FARO.

Jim’s earlier product development executive assignments resulted in the creation of radical new products and robotic automation systems at Perceptron (which he co-founded), RAM Center and Key Technology. Over these years, he developed a work philosophy that nurtures highly effective engineering teams supported by efficient processes. These experiences also helped him foster a deep belief in the benefit of cross-functional collaboration within any high technology enterprise.

Mr. West considers himself fortunate to have attended General Motors Institute (now Kettering University) for his BS in Electrical Engineering and to have been sponsored by GM’s Manufacturing Staff for his cooperative experience. This allowed him to conduct pioneering research into visually guided robotics while still an undergraduate. Awarded a General Motors Graduate Fellowship, Jim earned his MS in Electrical Engineering at the University of Illinois’ Coordinated Science Laboratory where he focused on machine vision, robotics and artificial intelligence.

Jim and his wife Pam live in beautiful Southern Chester County, PA (greater Philadelphia), while his three adult children live in Ann Arbor & Chicago. He is an athlete and musician and is active in church and volunteer activities. Jim is the founder and past President of The Machine Vision Association, past Director of both Robotics International & SME, and is presently an Advisor to the Chester County Technical College High School.