After James graduated from Year 12, he became a firefighter in the NSW Fire Brigade. In 2011, he began studying a Bachelor of Systems Engineering through the Australian National University.

While completing these studies, James worked in maintenance giving him hands-on experience and management skills. As part of his work, he completed a Diploma in Leadership and Management.

Through these experiences James discovered a passion for building, carpentry and woodworking. In mid-2017 James was offered an apprenticeship with ACTPRO Group and soon commenced his Certificate III in Carpentry through the Canberra Institute of Technology.

James believes that the variety of services provided by ACTPRO led to a greater understanding of the building industry. He is a firm believer in the fact that we never stop learning and plans to one day start his own carpentry business.