I was born and raised in Kings-Hants. My father Gordon was a truck driver, and my mom Shelley is an administrative assistant at our local elementary school. My family has always instilled in me the values of hard work and dedication.

Sport was a prominent aspect of my upbringing, and I was fortunate to play a variety of competitive sports at a young age - but hockey and softball were my mainstays.

Participating in organized sports taught me the importance of teamwork, and working toward a goal - not just a role.  

During my  time in University I was pleased to give back to the community by coaching minor hockey with the East Hants Minor Hockey Association and starting various non-profit organizations in the East Hants area, notably the East Hants Sport Heritage Society, and the Come Home East Hants Association which facilitated Tide Fest, a homecoming festival that puts money back into our communities.

I have degrees in commerce, public administration, and law. Prior to entering public life, I practiced as a lawyer in Halifax. Outside of my work as the Member of Parliament, I love spending time with my wife Kimberly, and our Bernese mountain dog, Louis. I still play hockey in the winter, golf and softball in the summer, and I enjoy reading up on history, including local Nova Scotian content.