James Tangaro moved to Anacortes with his wife in 2014 to manage the Tesoro Refinery on March Point. Seven years later, and after 34 years working in the oil and gas industry, he retired and stayed in Anacortes. The last 10 years of his career, Tangaro was responsible for managing refineries which included their safe and environmentally sound operation, meeting large capital and expense budgets, ensuring long-term profitability, and ensuring positive relationships with unions and the community.

Tangaro has been involved in the community since his arrival by serving on the boards of the United Way, the Boys and Girls Club, the Northwest WorkForce Council, and the Island Health Foundation. Tangaro was on the Island Health Foundation Board for six years which included a year as President. He’s also been a member of the Island Health Finance Committee for three years.

Tangaro and his wife, Michele, are originally from Butte, Montana. They became co-owners of Farmstrong Brewing Company in Mount Vernon in 2024. They have two adult daughters who also live in Skagit County.

Tangaro has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Environmental Engineering from Montana Tech, located in his hometown of Butte, Montana. He received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Montana Tech in 2020.