From Engineer to Entrepreneur: How James Ragin Made Ownership His Mission

Meet James Ragin, a chemical engineer turned Lean Six Sigma consultant, author, investor, and one of the founders of Project Ownership. After years in corporate America, James realized he wanted more—not just for himself, but for his community.

So he made the leap to business ownership.

He launched Action Consulting, LLC, helping manufacturers solve quality issues, reduce waste, and build Lean systems. Then he wrote the book “From Employee to Consultant” to help others follow in his footsteps. Most recently, he founded Project Ownership, an organization dedicated to helping people own at least one income-producing asset.

What inspired his leap into ownership?

“After losing both of my parents, I realized my time is limited. If I was ever going to build a business, I had to start now. That moment pushed me to stop waiting and finally pursue ownership.”

How has life changed because of ownership?

“Dramatically. I wake up every day thinking, What can I do to make society better? I’m not bound by corporate rules. I’m bound by what I believe is right—and I love it. I don’t make every decision based on money anymore—I now make decisions based on what I believe is best for me, my family, and my community.”

What fears did he face starting out?

“My personal fear was that people would prejudge me—because they rarely see Black people lead in Lean Six Sigma. But I was dedicated to always providing excellent results.”

What advice would he give others?

“Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t start a business. Start small while you still have a job—but make personal ownership a priority. Nobody can take that away from you.”

James is living proof that ownership changes everything. If he can do it, maybe you can too.

✅ Visit https://www.projectownership.org/about and start your ownership journey today.

📚 Check out the recommended reading list: https://www.projectownership.org/resource