Brian Irizarry graduated from Greater Atlanta Christian School before attending the University of Georgia. During college, he spent two years as a Graduate Assistant Coach with the UGA Women’s Soccer team.

Following his education, he answered the call to serve and joined the United States Marine Corps to support the Global War on Terror. He served four years as an Air Traffic Control Officer stationed in Iwakuni, Japan. In winter 2009-2010, he deployed to Helmand, Afghanistan, participating in Operation Moshtarak, a major assault on Marjah. For his service during Operation Enduring Freedom, he received the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.

After completing his military service, he met his wife Barbara and relocated to Bamberg, Germany, where he used his GI Bill benefits to earn a second degree in Mathematics Education. He then spent three years as a stay-at-home dad before moving to Aviano, Italy, where he continued caring for his children before transitioning to high school teaching.

Brian Irizarry’s family eventually moved to Houghton, Michigan to be closer to family and raise his children in the beautiful Upper Peninsula. He currently teach Spanish and Math at Baraga Area Schools. He is also active in local government, having been re-elected to the Houghton City Council for a second four-year term, which included serving two years as Mayor of Houghton.