Jim Willis is a credentialed security expert and anti-terrorism specialist. He is an experienced electrical engineer and international development professional that has worked in more than 37 developing countries, including conflict and post-conflict areas of Cambodia, Ethiopia, and South Sudan. He spent six years in Afghanistan as a Theater Operations Director leading security operations, training, and reconstruction efforts. Jim’s security expertise is founded on the ground combat-zone experience supplemented with training from the US Defense Security Service, the United Nations Dept. of Safety & Security, and the Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and Security.

Jim’s utility expertise started after a tour of duty with the Navy during the waning days of the Vietnam War, Jim began a life-long utility-focused career that has taken him from lineman to graduate electrical engineer and to utility manager. He has held a myriad of positions in distribution and transmission electric power systems.

Using his in-depth knowledge of electric power systems and utilities, combined with his expertise in security Jim developed “ASSIST”©, a proprietary active shooter and violence prevention training series.

Jim’s education includes a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering and a master’s degree in International Development and Security.

Jim is an active member of –

• Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
• Society for International Development (SID-Washington)
• International NGO Safety and Security Association (INSSA)
• International Association Counterterrorism & Security Professionals (IACSP)
• National Utility Training and Safety Education Association (NUTSEA)