Alum James Seen as One of the Toyota "Greats"

Toyota recently unveiled their 2013 Avalon at a press junket in Cincinnati. The event not only provided the media in attendance with a look at the newly designed vehicle, but also an inside look at the company who makes it and their strong commitment to diversity.

James S. Colon, Vice President-Toyota Product Communications, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. said, "Great Cars do not happen without Great People." Although he was not referring to himself when he made the statement, Colon is truly one of the great people at Toyota. He was just one of the great people from Toyota in attendance at the Press event. Toyota has a diversity strategy that is working. According to Colon, 30 percent of the workforce is people of color.

Colon is responsible for gathering and managing information and promotion initiatives for Toyota brand vehicles in addition to product and sales training. He began his career in 1980 and he has held various roles at Toyota regional offices and at TMS headquarters in Torrance, California, that include general manager for the Portland Region and the Chicago Region.

Another great person of Toyota is Wilbert W. (Wil) James, Jr. James is President of Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. When he gave an overview of the facility, he talked with great pride. He said, "We are proud of the way we do business."

James became the seventh president of TMMK in July 2010. It is the largest plant in North America. His first position at Toyota was actually at TMMK in 1987. Over a 20 year period, he served in various positions including General Manager of Assembly and General Manager of Production Administration. He served as vice president of Manufacturing from 2003-2006. He has also served in positions at other facilities including Toyota's Princeton, Indiana facility as Senior Vice President for Manufacturing and Quality. He also worked in Long Beach, California as President of TABC Inc.

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