Jim Keough is a seasoned engineering leader with over three decades of experience in specialty vehicle engineering, widely recognized for his commitment to product development, regulatory compliance, and quality management. As a visionary and results-driven professional, Jim’s career spans senior roles across engineering and project management, where he has consistently driven advancements in the design, development, and testing of specialty vehicles, including recreational vehicles, ambulances, and terminal trucks. His strategic leadership and dedication to high standards have made him a respected figure in the industry.

In his current role as a Senior Managing Engineer for the Vehicle Practice at Exponent, based in Phoenix, Arizona, Jim applies his extensive expertise to improve vehicle safety, reliability, and functionality. His work focuses on essential elements like weight distribution, structural analysis, and regulatory compliance, ensuring each project adheres to both company goals and industry standards. Jim’s leadership motto, “Plan the work and work the plan,” speaks to his disciplined approach, which emphasizes clear expectations, efficient project roadmaps, and a results-oriented mindset.

Jim’s career has been defined by high-impact projects that have set industry benchmarks. While at Capacity of Texas, he led the complete redesign of the Sabre Chassis, implementing innovative engineering solutions that enhanced product reliability, reduced costs, and improved both the safety and comfort of the vehicle. His achievements at Capacity of Texas also include leading significant EPA-compliant engine integrations, such as the Cummins QSB Tier 4 Final and Cummins ISB OBD II engines. These projects involved complex repackaging of chassis components and optimizing powertrain layouts to meet stringent environmental standards.

Adding to his impressive portfolio, Jim also worked as a consultant and Expert Witness in product liability cases. This role allowed him to conduct technical investigations, provide consulting services, and offer expert testimony. His work as an Expert Witness honed his analytical and investigative skills, giving him a unique perspective on the intricacies of product liability and risk assessment, which he applies across his roles in engineering leadership. This experience has been invaluable in understanding how product quality and compliance directly impact consumer safety.

In addition to his practical experience, Jim’s knowledge is recognized through his published work in notable industry publications. His articles, including “FEA Design Process” in Computer Graphics World, “Algor Software Helps Coachmen Industries Make Significant Cost Reductions – Slideout Bracket” in Algor Design World, and “A Wider Margin of Safety” in Mechanical Engineering, reflect his thought leadership and technical insight. These publications underscore his role as a forward-thinking engineer with a deep understanding of design, analysis, and innovation.

Jim’s educational background provides a solid foundation for his career. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University, where he actively participated in the Technical Assistance Program and served as President of Delta Upsilon Fraternity. His commitment to professional growth is further evidenced by his Professional Engineer (PE) license in Arizona, which demonstrates his dedication to maintaining high standards and staying current in his field. Jim’s career-long dedication to lifelong learning underpins his technical expertise and ability to tackle complex engineering challenges.

Over the years, Jim has developed a comprehensive skill set encompassing industry knowledge and technical proficiencies, ranging from product development, lean manufacturing, and finite element analysis (FEA) to team leadership, process control, and continuous improvement. Known for his proficiency in advanced engineering tools like AutoCAD, Solidworks, and MS Project, Jim continuously seeks out new methodologies to stay at the forefront of technological advancements in engineering, which he brings to every project.

Jim has held prominent roles across organizations such as Monaco RV, Thor Motor Coach, and Coachmen Industries, where he served in positions from Director of Engineering to Senior Director of Advanced Engineering and Design. Each of these roles has expanded his capabilities in technical and strategic leadership, solidifying his reputation as an innovative thinker who combines technical precision with a practical, hands-on approach to engineering challenges.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jim is an active member of the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) and the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE). His involvement in these organizations highlights his dedication to networking with industry peers, sharing his knowledge, and contributing to the advancement of the specialty vehicle industry. These affiliations allow him to stay connected with current trends and best practices, while also providing platforms for him to advocate for higher standards within the field.

Character:

Jim exemplifies integrity, perseverance, and a strong commitment to excellence, which have been foundational to his professional achievements. His dependable and ethical approach to leadership enables him to effectively navigate complex engineering challenges with confidence.

Knowledge:

With a deep understanding of engineering principles and a dedication to continuous learning, Jim remains at the forefront of industry advancements. His expertise in specialty vehicle design and regulatory compliance allows him to make impactful contributions to each project he undertakes.

Strategic:

Jim employs a structured and goal-oriented approach to planning, focusing on resource management and risk mitigation to ensure the success of every project. His strategic mindset enables him to align engineering objectives with broader business goals for maximum impact.

Communication:

Known for his clear and open communication style, Jim fosters strong collaboration and shared understanding among team members and stakeholders. His ability to convey complex technical information effectively supports cohesive teamwork and project alignment.