Jim Puente has over 30 years of experience in healthcare and has led the successful Nurse Licensure Compact as its Director since 2009. In addition to responsibility for the day-to-day operations of the Nurse Licensure Compact, Jim is also the driving force behind the development and implementation of strategies for regulatory compliance and the Nurse Licensure Compact Commission's strategic plan.
Jim holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame, an MS degree in Public Service Management from DePaul University and a Master of Jurisprudence degree in Health Law & Policy from Loyola University School of Law. Jim is also a Certified Association Executive (CAE).
His extensive experience addressing regulatory processes and compliance has shaped his expertise in public protection, implementing licensure compacts, and strengthening the workforce enabled by removing barriers to cross-border practice. Jim regularly advises licensed professionals and stakeholders to develop and facilitate effective interstate compacts and is widely known as a leader of education and development for associations and regulatory boards.