Barry studied at Memorial University for three years prior to graduating with a diploma in Business Management and Accounting from the College of the North Atlantic. Barry was a mental health counsellor for 20 years, served on various boards including; NL Association of Social Workers and Municipal Appeals Board. He was also President and Chief Shop Stewart of Local 6234. Barry was first elected in 2015, and reelected in 2019. Barry resides in CBS with his wife and two daughters.