James DeSmet

James DeSmet is an accomplished business leader with over 20 years of experience in top leadership roles at General Electric and Big Ass Fans. Driven by a long-held goal to build his own engineering firm, James acquired CRG Automation in 2019 and transformed it into a nationally recognized industrial automation and integration company—one known for solving the kinds of complex engineering challenges that leave others scratching their heads.

As CEO, James grew CRG Automation from a six-person team to more than 30 employees, earning national recognition for the company’s rapid growth, innovation, and culture. Under his leadership, CRG delivered advanced automation systems for demanding environments, including its critical role in the U.S. Department of Defense’s chemical weapons demilitarization program. Today, the company supports a range of blue-chip clients in manufacturing, packaging, and distribution, offering custom-engineered solutions alongside high-performance equipment and machinery.

Now serving as Chairman of the Board, James provides strategic direction, governance, and M&A guidance as CRG continues to expand its capabilities and reach. A lifelong learner and technology enthusiast, he actively explores emerging innovations—within automation and beyond.

James holds a Marine Engineering Systems degree from the United States Merchant Marine Academy and has earned GE Six Sigma Black Belt and Master Black Belt certifications (DFSS/DMAIC). He served 14 years as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Naval Reserve and is also the President and Co-Founder of 502cares, Inc., a Louisville-based nonprofit. Outside of work, James enjoys spending summer weekends at the lake with his wife Missy and their four children.