James “Jimmy” Warlick joined the N.C. Board of Transportation in September 2026 and represents Division 13.
Warlick is a businessman, entrepreneur, historic preservationist and philanthropist with more than five decades of experience. He is the owner and president of the White House Gift Center in Washington, D.C.
The Morganton native’s civic interests include education, workforce recognition, community development and charitable initiatives throughout western North Carolina. He has also been involved for many years in federal and state politics and has worked with public officials, civic organizations, and nonprofit groups on projects intended to strengthen communities and preserve North Carolina history.
Throughout his career, Warlick has developed, produced, and presented major U.S. presidential exhibitions. His work has included traveling exhibitions featuring presidential aircraft, Oval Office recreations, historic vehicles and other artifacts associated with the U.S. presidency.
He is also the founder of the Workers’ Legacy Foundation, created to preserve and honor the contributions of North Carolina’s industrial workers. The foundation also supports scholarships for first-generation college students, oral-history projects, and educational programs focused on North Carolina’s industrial heritage.
In recognition of his service to North Carolina, Warlick received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine in 2021, one of the state’s highest civilian honors.
Warlick attended Western Piedmont Community College, Appalachian State University and N. C. State University. He resides in western North Carolina.