Candidate profile: NIC trustee, James W. (Jim) Ruch

| October 1, 2012 6:38 AM

Birth date: 1/22/48

Profession: Mechanical Engineer

Education: BS Mechanical Engineering, Master in Engineering Management

Public Service: None

Community Service: Shriner (Shrine Hospital)

How many years as a resident of your city: Moved to Coeur d’Alene in 1979 from New Jersey

Marital status: Married

Family: Wife Mary, Daughters Beth & Jenny, Son in Law Tom, Grandchildren Jordyn, Jocelyn & Jarrett

Hobbies: Fishing, Hunting Reading

1. Why are you running or office?

I will be retiring next year and would like to give back to the community some of what we have enjoyed while living and growing here. Both our daughters graduated from NIC. I can bring unique skills to this position having experience in both industry and education.

2. What do you see as the three biggest issues you’ll face?

Taxes, Tuition, Growth

3. If elected, what steps will you take to resolve these issues?

These issues are so intertwined it is nearly impossible to separate them and work at only one. Growth in the area precludes increased needs for higher education. Growth in job complexity requires additional educational resources. Educational resources require funding. Funding is primarily acquired through taxes and tuition. This will require careful balancing in all areas. These cannot be singled out and made into one objective for a board member to work. These issues must be recognized as being linked and requiring a balanced focus. Determine what the future educational needs are. Estimate what the funding requirements for those needs will be. Determine where funding is available and develop a funding plan that is visible and simple.

4. What specific skills or experience qualify you for this job?

Skills: 36 years of experience in engineering, manufacturing and sales. 10 years teaching at the university level. I have curriculum development experience in a post-high school setting. I have been the project manager for several multi-million dollar projects in my business career.

5. Why should voters elect you, rather than an opponent?

I am truly an Independent. I have no affiliation with any group. I will not be influenced by any platform. I will do what is best for the community we all choose as our home.