Former Gartner analyst will drive TechInsights growing work in automotive technology applications including connected and autonomous vehicles.

TechInsights, a trusted patent and technology partner to the world’s largest and most successful companies, announced that Jim Hines, a semiconductor expert specializing in automotive and smart mobility innovations, joined the company as Director of Automotive Research. The former Gartner analyst has advised clients around the world on semiconductors and related technologies supporting autonomous driving systems, data connectivity in vehicles, human-machine interface (HMI), and powertrain electrification.

“Jim brings extensive expertise and knowledge across the semiconductor industry,” said John Day, CEO of TechInsights. “His engineering background, combined with his market-leading research on, and knowledge of, emerging and evolving technologies for the automotive market makes him a valuable addition for both TechInsights and our customers.”

Prior to joining TechInsights, Mr. Hines held increasingly senior positions with Gartner. Most recently, he worked as research director for automotive electronics and semiconductors, leading research on market trends, competitive analysis, technology assessments, go-to-market strategies, and market forecasts. While with Gartner, he contributed to IoT and smart city research and initiated the company’s coverage of the photovoltaic (PV) solar energy market. In addition, he compiled a vast body of research on silicon manufacturing and fabless semiconductor operations.

Before Gartner, Mr. Hines worked in product management for global leaders in the semiconductor industry including Applied Materials, Genus and Texas Instruments. In these positions, he gained deep knowledge and insights into semiconductor equipment, IC fabrication, and ASIC and DSP applications.

Mr. Hines earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of California, Santa Barbara.