Jim Browning is an entrepreneur, engineer, and community-minded leader based in Colorado. His career bridges engineering discipline and business strategy, all driven by a belief in helping others rise.

Born and raised on a farm in Texas, Jim learned the value of problem-solving early. He went on to study engineering at the United States Military Academy at West Point.

After 9/11, Jim served with the United Nations Command in Asia, supporting complex international operations that strengthened his leadership and adaptability. When his military service ended, he carried those lessons into the private sector.

As a leader in Trades Education Jim helped to modernise training for trades such as cosmetology, HVAC, and electrical work. Later, as Head of Operations for Run Specialty Group, he grew a network of more than 50 speciality running stores nationwide. In Colorado, he co-founded RNK Running, a community-driven retailer that supports local athletes and events.

Through his company, JB Services, Jim helps organisations build predictable systems, improve communication, and align teams. His approach blends engineering logic with people-first leadership. Guided by the philosophy “I rise by lifting others,” Jim Browning Colorado continues to empower communities and businesses through structure, compassion, and shared success.

Q&A with Jim Browning Colorado

You’ve had quite a diverse career—from the military to engineering and business. How did it all begin?

I grew up on a small farm in Texas where resources were limited, so solving problems creatively became part of everyday life. My dad was a teacher, my mum was a nurse, and both taught me resilience. Running was my escape, and it became my lifetime sport. That combination of discipline and curiosity led me to West Point, where I studied engineering and later to the University of Missouri and Duke to continue studies in Engineering and Business.

How did your military background shape your leadership approach?

Serving with the United Nations Command after 9/11 was life-changing. We were working across cultures and time zones, often in unfamiliar and “uncharted waters”. I learnt that clear systems, communication, and trust are essential. Those lessons became the foundation of how I lead teams and businesses today.

After leaving the military, you moved into education. What drew you to that field?

I wanted to help others gain practical skills that lead to real careers. In the education systems I served, we created structured, consistent training programmes for trades like cosmetology, building maintenance, and many other practical skills. It was about giving people a reliable path to success, not just a certificate.

You later led operations for the Run Specialty Group. What made that role special?

That project was about creating a network of the best independent running stores in the country. We grew from zero to over fifty locations before selling to The Finish Line. It taught me how powerful shared vision can be when everyone understands the mission.

How did RNK Running in Colorado come about?

After that success, I wanted to do something local, something rooted in community. RNK Running started as a small store in Douglas County. It wasn’t just about selling shoes; it was about building a place for people who love running and connection. Even during the pandemic, when we were forced to close temporarily, we kept our team employed because community comes first.

You faced a major tragedy at RNK Running in 2017. How did that experience affect you?

A car crashed into our Parker store, resulting in a young girl named Rylie losing her life and injuring others. It was devastating. Reporters asked if the business would survive, and I told them, “The business isn’t important right now.” That moment reminded me what truly matters—people. Rylie’s parents later started Rylie’s ARK (Acts of Random Kindness) Foundation, and we continue to support it today.

Through JB Services, you now help other businesses. What’s your approach?

I treat business growth like engineering a structure. Begin with the end in mind, build in phases, and make every step measurable. I use the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) tools to help companies align teams and solve problems efficiently. My goal is to bring clarity, predictability, and calm to complex environments.

What does success mean to you today?

Success is seeing others grow. Whether it’s a small business owner preparing for succession or a nonprofit creating community impact, I measure my success by theirs. My motto has always been, “I rise by lifting others.”

How do you view Colorado’s business landscape?

Colorado has a unique mix of innovation and community spirit. There’s a culture of collaboration here—people genuinely want to help each other succeed. It’s the perfect environment for small and midsize businesses to thrive if they have the right systems in place.

What advice would you give to other leaders building teams?

Keep it human. Systems and tools are great, but people make everything work. Build mutual respect through shared struggle and shared success. When teammates respect each other, they can achieve what once seemed impossible.

And finally, what’s next for you?

I’ll continue helping businesses grow through JB Services and mentoring leaders across Colorado and the US. Every project is a chance to build something lasting. The end goal is always the same—stronger teams, stronger systems, and stronger communities.

To learn more about his work, visit jim-browning.com.

Read more:
Jim Browning Colorado on Building Businesses That Last