After a gap year abroad, James enrolled in the Belfast Metropolitan College and began studying for his NVQ levels two and three in catering. Under the guidance of his college tutor and mentor Thomas Turley , James competed in the first ever Robbie Millar Scholarship Competition in 2007 securing a place in the final. On completion of his studies he secured a place in the kitchen of the prestigious Nuremore Hotel under the tutelage of Raymond Mc Ardle. In 2008 he returned to his home town Dungannon and began working in the very popular Deli On The Green with head chef Bob Mc Donald.

Whilst there James competed in competitions in N. Ireland and England and was the recipient of numerous awards. In 2009 he entered one of the toughest and most prestigious culinary competitions The Baileys Eurotoques Young Chef of the year. After a gruelling selection process James was awarded the title young chef of the year. Part of his prize included a stage at the Two Michelin star restaurant Pied A Terre in London working under the direction of Shane Osborne.

Following this he completed another stage in Mc Neans Bistro in Blacklion under the direction of Nevin Maguire. While working James continued to study at Belfast Metropolitan College and graduated last year with a foundation degree in culinary arts and science. He has since returned to Deli on the Green and is now working as head chef.