Prior to becoming an attorney, Mike served in the United States Marine Corps where had multiple deployments. Mike participated in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom which included a tour in Iraq. In recognition of this Mike was awarded several medals and commendations and ultimately achieved the rank of Sergeant.After his service, Mike became a Journeyman Rigger with Local 136 before taking a withdrawal card to attend Western Illinois University. While at Western Mike spent his summers working for the Riggers as well as the Ironworkers of Local 63. After graduation, Mike worked as a Safety Consultant for companies such as US Steel, Brandenberg, ArcelorMittal, Midwest Generation, and many others. He eventually took a position as a Risk Management Consultant for the Illinois Counties Risk Management Trust.After several years with the Illinois Counties Risk Management Trust, Mike was accepted to the Chicago-Kent College of Law, where he graduated with a Certificate in Labor and Employment Law. While at Chicago-Kent, Mike broadened his legal experience with positions at the Chicago Legal Clinic, at a boutique labor law firm in Chicago, and at the Cook County State's Attorney's Office, where he utilized his 711 license in the Felony Trial Division.