Jay started his carpentry story as soon as he could pick up a hammer. In high school, he would make custom wood projects for friends, neighbors, and more. His family has been close with the Tidwells his whole life.

He worked for John Tidwell and Sons in the summers during high school and college. He gained the reputation of precision work, detailed planning, logical problem-solving, and accuracy with everything.

He graduated in 2019 from the University of North Georgia with a Bachelors degree in Physical Education and a minor in leadership. He commissioned into the Army National Guard as a Logistician. In his free time, he likes to rock climb and camp in the mountains.