Jacques was born and raised in Schenectady, NY and began skating at the age of 3.  Starting in group classes, he was trained using the Lussi Method and reached the ISI level of Freestyle 9 and USFS level of Novice Freeskating at age 10.  After medaling regionally in singles skating for six consecutive seasons (Gold in 1998 earning him in Bernice Hiltzig Memorial Trophy on display at the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame) and pairs skating for four consecutive seasons, he competed nationally and at the North American Challenge Skate for the United States. At age 18, Jacques earned his USFS Gold Medal and hung up his skates. Throughout his competitive training, he was continuing a rigorous high school education, eventually graduating 6th in his high school class of nearly 400 students. Jacques then earned a degree in Chemistry with a minor in Film Studies from The Colorado College. After graduation, he decided to reintroduce skating to his life and moved to Laurel, Maryland in July of 2004 to teach at The Gardens Ice House, where he has been ever since.  In addition to training and choreographing for skaters from basic skills to senior levels, he has had the honor of coaching and choreographing an internationaly travelling Theatre on Ice team and directing and choreographing for over 20 local figure skating ice shows in 9 years.  In 2015, Jacques not only earned a Level III ranking from the Professional Skaters Association, the PSA named Jacques the inaugural recipient of the Don Laws Memorial Scholarship based on dedication to coaching, sound character and ethical practices. Jacques is a Junior National and rated PSA professional in Freeskating, Moves in the Field, Choreography and Group Instruction and co director of The Competitive Edge of Maryland.  Jacques continually looks forward to promoting the art of figure skating to all.