Jim D. Wiethorn has been involved in the design, construction, and evaluation of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings since 1973. His experience has included assessment of damage and failure of all construction types and systems, but in particular, crane accidents and operations. During that time, he has evaluated over 1200 crane and rigging failures throughout the United States and abroad.

Currently, he serves on the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO), Tower Crane Committee, and Rigger Task Force Committee. Additionally, Dr. Wiethorn is a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) B30 Main Committee; and B30.3, Tower Cranes, and B30.29, Self-Erecting Tower Cranes sub-committees.

Dr. Wiethorn is currently an Engineering Specialist at International Crane & Construction Safety Solutions, LLC, Houston, Texas.