March 2013 Newsletter: Executive-in-Residence Spotlight: Jim Ruma

Jim Ruma joined the Macomb-OU INCubator in February of 2013 as an Executive-in-Residence (EIR) to help early-stage companies navigate the complex defense industry. Jim assists businesses in the development of technology, engineering, manufacturing and sustainment in relation to Michigan defense challenges and opportunities.

“Mac-OU INC has allowed me to meet and speak with several innovative people who want to develop their technological ideas. Following this, they want to build a business opportunity to the primary benefit of future customers and secondary to the personal development of themselves and their associates,” says Jim.

In his EIR role, Jim has researched potential defense opportunities for Mac-OU INC clients, including the Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA). He has met with clients who are developing technologies, and he serves as the liaison between them and local defense companies. In addition, Jim is a Business Advisory Board member for Smart Lighting Solutions. Overall, Jim will add value to Mac-OU INC clients who wish to break the barrier into large industrial parks, municipalities and government agencies, as he is well connected with TACOM, TARDEC and General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS).

“I hope to contribute, as time goes on, to business development and growth by providing useful guidance and support to help [clients] mature and by demonstrating a legacy of significance to themselves and others,” says Jim.

With 40 years of industry experience, he most recently served as GDLS of Sterling Heights Vice President of Engineering Programs and Project Management and as a board member, and past President, of the Michigan National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) Michigan chapter. Ruma & Associates, LLC is his newest venture from which he provides technical consulting services. He also interfaces with local companies associated with the NDIA and government defense agencies.

The Macomb-OU INCubator Executive-in-Residence program invites clients of the incubator to collaborate with business specialists, in an effort to bring the utmost in success to the small businesses of the metro Detroit area.