Born in Kamloops, B.C., Jay got his entrepreneurial drive from watching and working with his parents in their many family businesses. After high school he moved to Vancouver to attend Langara Community College to study psychology and political science. During a summer break he took a job with the Canadian Coast Guard. Enjoying this new venture and doing such a great job he was recommended by the CCG that he might do as well within the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Jay commenced work with the RCMP in 1984, during his employment with the RCMP he also worked part time by a local fire department and ambulance service. As if wearing all of these emergency hats wasn’t enough, his drive to own his own business prevailed. In 1992, Jay started a small manufacturing and industrial sewing business while still working full time. By 1996 with his small business expanding, a decision was made to resign from the RCMP. This small business turned into something very lucrative and in 1999 Jay sold his sewing business to a public company. Since 1992, Jay still found time to work on the weekends with Upright Designs, helping Colin set up events. “It was perfect timing” Jay said. “I just sold my business and Colin was swamped!” In 2000 Jay joined the company full time.