Reed is a life-long Williston resident. He earned a BS in Environmental Studies and Chemistry Combined from St. Lawrence University in Canton, NY. His college career included a semester abroad studying the culture and tropical ecology of Costa Rica. Eager for more opportunities to study biology and ecology, he applied and was accepted into the UVM Land Stewardship internship program following graduation where he participated in projects ranging from invasive insect and plant control, to proposals for appropriate trails and public access to natural areas across VT.

Expecting to begin a career in environmental science in Washington, DC, Reed headed south for what turned out to be six years. He stumbled into an information technology career that began at the global bio-resource center ATCC. In 2013 he joined Freddie Mac, and later transitioned to fill-time remote work in 2016 when he and his new wife Michelle returned to their home town to be near family. 

Since returning Reed has been an active contributor to the grassroots environmental group Sustainable Williston, and joined the Conservation Commission to share his wide range of knowledge to help Williston balance land conservation and public recreational access. Reed is active in the local soccer community as a referee, coach, and player. His family enjoys hiking, biking, skiing, karate, spending time enjoying and supporting their parents, and DIY projects on their approximately 1820s home in the historic village.