Alumni Snapshot: Jim Williams

Title:
Major General, Assistant Division Commander, 2d Marine Division (Rear)

Current Organization:
U.S. Marine Corps Combat Development Command

Perot Systems Experience:
As one of the original associates with the healthcare team, he worked in the Healthcare Consulting group from 1989 to 1992 and again from 1995 to 1997. Jim was instrumental in obtaining the company’s first healthcare client, Epic.

What do you do in your current role and what do you like most about it?
In my role as Deputy Commanding General, I command the 2nd Marine Division and am in charge of preparing 25,000 Marines for battle. I truly enjoy working such a great group of professionals who epitomize courage, integrity and values.

What experience did you gain from Perot Systems that helped lead you to where you are today?
Perot Systems was built on a foundation of strong values. This appealed to me a great deal because it was very similar to my background with the Marines, and I found this to be a complementary relationship over the course of 11 years that I was with Perot Systems.

Who was your role model or mentor during your career at Perot Systems?
I’ve had a few role models during my tenure at Perot Systems. Ross Perot, Sr., whom I’ve known since 1978, influenced me in many ways and taught me to be a better leader.

My other mentor was DeSoto Jordan, who was one of the original eight founders of the company. During his tenure, he held several leadership positions that included launching and managing the Healthcare group. Today he is a member of the board of directors and I continue to be friends with him.

Where did you go to school and what did you study?
I received my Bachelor of Science degree from Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania. I have a Master’s degree from Georgetown University in government and national security affairs, and from Yale University in hospital management/public health. I am currently in the process of completing an additional Master’s degree in computer engineering and computer science.

What do you like to do outside of work?
I enjoy a variety of activities, such as reading books, practicing martial arts, watching action-adventure films, such as Rob Roy, and traveling throughout the world.

I also enjoy counseling people on the importance of financial security. I am certified in insurance, securities, etc., and meet frequently with people who want to improve their financial circumstances.