James Kuiken Named as Industrial Lead in Kalispell-Missoula Region

We’re pleased to announce that James Kuiken has been selected as the new Industrial Market Group Office Leader for the Kalispell/Missoula region.

With a career spanning the automotive industry, consulting, and electric distribution projects, James brings 26+ years of experience in project management and team leadership to this new role. His leadership style is rooted in relationship-building, influence, and a deep commitment to employee-owner engagement.

Originally from Fort Collins, Colorado, James holds a mechanical engineering degree from Colorado State University and a master’s in product development from the University of Detroit-Mercy. He moved to Missoula in 2019, drawn by Montana’s unique character and quality of life.

In his new role, James is focused on growing our industrial electric distribution projects, including working with Montana’s 25 regional electrical cooperatives. This type of work includes helping connect co-ops to reliable power and backup power systems, as well as resiliency projects that are aimed at reducing wildfire danger, improving reliability, and, in some cases, beautifying our landscape.

What James finds most rewarding is engaging with clients and working collaboratively to address their challenges. He is passionate about helping others achieve their goals and believes strongly in the positive impact that effective managers can have on their teams’ day-to-day success.

Outside of the office, James is active in his community, and currently mentors two students at Loyola Sacred Heart High School while they develop independent research projects for the Montana Science Fair. He also serves on the Missoula Economic Partnership Infrastructure Coalition and on the First Lutheran Missoula Stewardship Board. James is a proud husband and father to two sons, and together they stay active through downhill skiing, fly-fishing, camping, and hiking.