Carey grew up in Moreland, GA and graduated from East Coweta High School in 1994. She enlisted in the United States Navy at the age of 23 with time in service ranging from 1999-2013. She was honorably discharged from the Navy in February 2013.

Upon completion of Electronic Warfare “C” School, she was stationed aboard the USS Iwo Jima (LHD-7) as an Electronic Warfare Technician in IWO’s Operations Division. During her time onboard, she received her surface warfare and air warfare pins. She then served time at NIOC Norfolk, working with ships out to sea and ensuring their electronic databases were accurate and mission ready.  Her next duty station was back at sea, where she ran her division onboard the USS NASSAU (LHA-4).  Carey ended her time in the Navy as department LCPO and member of the Navy’s only Operation Testing and Evaluation Command. 

While serving her country she received her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Finance in 2009, then proceeded to achieve her Master’s Degree in 2012.  Her hard work and dedication paid off when she separated from the United States Navy, as she became employed at Old Dominion University Research Foundation as an HR Temp in November 2015.  She was with the Research Foundation for approximately six months before moving into a permanent position as Travel Specialist.  She was then promoted to Accountant in January 2017 and now holds the position of Accounting and Admin Supervisor.