J. Collins holds a professional background rooted in the funeral service industry, beginning his career in 1997. He graduated from Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service in February 2000 and became a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer. Collins transitioned from the private sector to public service, becoming the youngest mayor of Villa Rica, Georgia, in November 2003, a role he held until 2016. He then successfully ran for and won a seat in the Georgia House of Representatives, representing District 68, and later District 71.

J. Collins combines a unique blend of local business acumen and political leadership, stemming from his background as a funeral home director. His strategic political positioning often shows an unexpected alignment with opposing factions, particularly on environmental regulations, suggesting a calculated approach to balancing regional industrial interests. Collins's rhetorical style is grounded in personal, lived experience, often drawing from his unique professional background to frame broader policy issues. This creates an intriguing tension between his local business roots and broader legislative responsibilities.