BSCI Alum Draws on Auburn Experience to Lead

For Auburn University Building Science alumnus Jim Goodwin ‘97, leadership in the construction industry has been built steadily—project by project, team by team—over nearly three decades.

A man with a beard and mustache wears a blue suit jacket and light blue shirt, standing in front of a textured, gray background.
Jim Goodwin ’97

Now serving as President and CEO of Kajima Building & Design Group, Inc. (KBD Group), Goodwin’s career reflects the long-term impact of an Auburn education paired with hands-on industry experience.

Goodwin earned a Bachelor of Science in Building Construction from the McWhorter School of Building Science (BSCI), where he first discovered the management, scheduling and estimating skills that would shape his professional path.

“I would not be where I am today without Auburn’s program,” he said. “Auburn’s BSCI curriculum is highly relevant to the construction industry and provides the basic skills needed for construction management. It provides a great start to what a career needs in our industry.”

Equally influential was Auburn’s internship program, which connected Goodwin to KBD Group while he was still a student. That opportunity became the foundation for a career spent growing within the same organization—an experience that allowed him to develop deep expertise across a wide range of project types, from government and industrial facilities to multi-story high-rises.

One of Goodwin’s favorite projects was Toyo Tires Phase 3, a large-scale manufacturing facility defined by complex site conditions and intense schedule pressure. As the project’s primary leader, Goodwin guided the team through these challenges, delivering results that exceeded expectations.

Large industrial warehouse with a white exterior next to train tracks under a clear blue sky; freight cars are visible on the tracks.
KBD Group’s oversight of the Toyo Tires facility prompted 14 more projects with the company.

“The most satisfying part of this project and story is that it has brought 14 more expansion projects after that project,” he said. “Even today, our company is still working on a significant project at this facility.”

Beyond technical expertise, Goodwin credits Auburn’s culture with shaping his approach to leadership.

“Auburn’s environment and spirit help create great people,” he said. “The people of Auburn are motivated and have an attitude that helps move everyone forward.”

Two men pose indoors in front of a wall of plaques, each holding an award; one is a certificate, the other a framed photo with a “First Place” construction award.
Goodwin (right) with KBD Senior Vice President and Business Unit Director Mike Simpson, celebrating company commendations from the Associated General Contractors.

Today, Goodwin leads KBD Group with a focus on collaboration, continuous improvement and sustainable growth. He remains actively involved in professional organizations including the AGC Executive Alliance and the Auburn Oaks and continues to emphasize the values instilled during his time at Auburn.

His career stands as a powerful example of how Auburn alumni carry their education forward—building not only projects, but lasting impact across the construction industry.

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