Joe grew up in a small rural town where he attended public schools and developed a strong work ethic, modeled after his parents. In college, Joe studied ocean engineering, paying his way by working on tug boats and barges. After working in the marine and environmental consulting field for several years, Joe eventually followed his dream of going to law school. Joe, his wife Amanda, and their son, Boone, now live in Charleston where Joe practices law and the couple own a small business.