James Laird holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and a Master of Engineering Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Old Dominion University.

Mr. Laird is a licensed Professional Engineer (P.E) in Washington, Idaho, Oregon, Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, North Carolina, DC and South Carolina. He is a Certified Fire Investigator (CFI), Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator (CFEI) and a Certified Vehicle Fire Investigator (CVFI).

Mr. Laird has 15+ years of experience in forensic engineering investigations and expert witness services. His forensic investigation and technical expertise encompass heavy equipment, vehicle systems, automotive crash data download, vehicle/equipment fire origin and cause, weld and fastener failures, power tools, consumer equipment, motorcycle crashes, forklifts, aerial work platforms, workplace safety, plumbing fixtures, exercise equipment, HVAC equipment, fire sprinkler systems, appliances, natural gas, propane systems, and solid fuel fired appliances.