Jake was born and raised in Southern Illinois where he attended and graduated from Egyptian High School. He attended Shawnee Community College for 2 years before transferring to Southeast Missouri State University where he graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Athletic Training in 2015. He is certified through the National Athletic Training Association’s Board of Certification and licensed in Missouri.

Jake interned at Southern Illinois University the summer and fall of 2015 where he worked football and assisted Strength and Conditioning for multiple sports. He has been with the Jackson School District since 2016 where he covers sports for grades 7th-12th. He has a 6 year old daughter, Aria, who attends East Elementary.