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Jim Norris
Professional Background
Jim Norris is a distinguished professional in the manufacturing systems engineering and software sales industry, bringing over two decades of experience to the table. He currently serves as the President and Owner of GEARHEAD ENGINEERING, INC., where he leads innovative projects that combine engineering with practical solutions for various sectors. His leadership at GEARHEAD ENGINEERING underscores his commitment to excellence in engineering and client satisfaction, driving the company toward new heights in the competitive landscape.
Before founding GEARHEAD ENGINEERING, Jim held several high-profile roles in various organizations, primarily focusing on North American sales. As the VP of North American Sales at Ratio Software Engineering, he was instrumental in enhancing the company’s market presence and optimizing client relationships. His tenure at other companies such as Apiko, Astarios, Ebryx (Pvt.) Ltd., and Axmor Software, Inc. solidified his reputation as a leading sales strategist in the software engineering domain. Fostering partnerships and leveraging his engineering background, Jim excelled in navigating the complex demands of technology sales, consistently exceeding targets and contributing to significant organizational growth.
Jim's career also includes a solid foundation in engineering, having worked at Solid Data Systems as an Account Manager, and progressing through several key roles at Silicon Graphics International (SGI). During his time at SGI, Jim not only contributed as a Process Engineer but also managed QA Engineering, materials management, business development, and market development for file serving. These multifaceted roles have equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of engineering processes, making him a well-rounded leader in both technical and business environments. His early career as an Engineer at IBM laid the groundwork for his extensive expertise, where he honed his skills and developed a keen eye for innovation.
Education and Achievements
Jim Norris earned his Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Mechanical Engineering from California State University, Chico, where he built a strong foundation in engineering principles that would later inform his professional decisions and strategies. He furthered his education at Stanford University, obtaining a Master of Science (MS) degree in Manufacturing Systems Engineering. This academic journey not only refined his technical abilities but also cultivated a strong analytical mindset that has greatly benefitted his numerous professional roles.
His educational achievements, combined with his vast professional experience, position Jim as an authority in engineering and sales. He is known for his ability to merge technical knowledge with business acumen, making him a valuable asset in any organization.
Notable Achievements
Throughout his illustrious career, Jim Norris has amassed a wealth of accomplishments. At GEARHEAD ENGINEERING, he successfully launched several innovative projects, which have been well received in the market for their quality and practicality. His leadership has inspired his team to push the boundaries of what is possible in engineering, with a focus on sustainable and efficient practices.
During his time in various VP roles, Jim was recognized for implementing strategic sales initiatives that not only boosted the bottom line but also fostered long-lasting relationships with clients. His knack for understanding customer needs and translating them into practical solutions has been a significant factor in his success, allowing him to consistently deliver results that exceed expectations.
Moreover, Jim has been an advocate for technology-driven solutions, leveraging the powerful intersection of engineering and sales to meet the emerging challenges within the tech industry. His contributions have not only advanced the companies he has been affiliated with but have also positively impacted the engineering landscape as a whole.
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