Meet James McMillan, owner of High Tide Environmental. Although James spent most of his childhood in Texas, generations before him were farmers in Allendale County, South Carolina, and his roots are still planted there. A love for fishing brought James to Charleston to attend the College of Charleston, where he received a degree in Biology with an emphasis in Environmental Studies. From there, James worked in various environmental-related roles and learned a lot about the environmental and historical challenges Lowcountry people are faced with. While he is grateful for the experience gained working for large consulting companies, James felt that he could be of greater direct benefit to his Lowcountry community. So, after obtaining an MBA from the Citadel, he abandoned his corporate resume and started his own consulting agency. High Tide Environmental’s vision is to provide individualized and professional environmental consulting service to the Lowcountry area at an unparalleled level of service. Above all, they value relationships, integrity, commitment, and service.

Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I am truly grateful for the lessons my father and mother taught me growing up. My father, who was a farmer first, then an electrical engineer, taught me hard work, integrity, character, and perseverance. My mother, who had her own law firm, taught me creativity, independence, and passion. My stepmother, who unwaveringly raised me as her own, taught me the importance of empathy and kindness. It was the perfect balance. I married the strongest woman I have ever known in 2019. Our son was born in 2021, and I have yet to experience a greater joy than his presence. Our lives are hectic, so we value every minute together.

Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I have been in the environmental consulting industry for over nine years, working for various large companies. When I realized I wanted to have a greater impact on my community and the freedom to truly help clients with fewer limitations, I decided to open my own consulting agency. We deal primarily with asbestos, lead-based paint, and mold/moisture related issues, which are all common where we live. What I love most about this work is being able to help a client identify (or prevent) an issue or unnecessary exposure from happening.

Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Living on the south side of town, we visit Johns Island restaurants the most. The selection has gotten much better, but we do miss the Fat Hen. We frequent Maria’s, Blackbird Market, and the humble yet amazing HUM grocery on Wadmalaw. For special occasions, there is only one option: Wild Olive!

Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I moved to Charleston in 2011 and stayed after graduation. I worked as a dockhand throughout college and have been in the workforce ever since.

Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
I have a neighbor that is just one of those extremely interesting people. He used to operate a shrimping vessel, and now owns and manages a herd of 70+ cattle. The stories he tells and knowledge he has is unbelievable. I’ve also had the pleasure of talking with many of the seasoned farmers in this area. Their stories of an older Charleston are always interesting and bittersweet.

Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
I have always wanted to travel to New Zealand. I have a passion for wildlife and our natural world, and I think New Zealand epitomizes that. My brother, father, and I hope to make a trip in the next few years.

Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Favorite Movie: Wild America (1997). Favorite Show: The Office!

Q: What advice would you give to people?
Invest time and effort in your relationship with your family, the returns are worth it! Also – set goals for personal improvement and work on them! Discover a personal passion and enjoy it!

Q: What is something on your bucket list?
To travel to New Zealand with my brother and father and to take my family to Alaska for a week of outdoor excursions!

Q: What is your go to band when you cant decide what to listen to?
Turnpike Troubadours & Marcus King Band

Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
My family and friend group really misses the Fat Hen, as mentioned. It felt like a meeting place and focused on unique and high-quality food.

Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
I would love to meet David Attenborough, since his documentaries had such an impact on me (and still do!). A burger at Poe’s Tavern would suffice I am sure!

Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
People in our community tend to shine when they value compassion for others. It seems to happen naturally. I am always so happy to see random acts of kindness.

Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I would like for High Tide Environmental to be a household name in Charleston, with a growing number of employees and satisfied clients. At that time, I would like to also be much more involved in our community and giving back in various ways.

Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I lived on a 28-foot Catalina sailboat for three years in college, and it was some of the most fun I have ever had!

Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Port Alexander, Alaska. Shout out to Kevin Mulligan at Fisherman’s Inn!

Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
My favorite month is November. The fishing here turns amazing, the weather is typically gorgeous, and we all feel relief that hurricane season is ending! I love that Christmas brings family together!

Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
The feeling of accomplishing a long-term goal!

Q: Who inspires you to be better?
Without question, my wife. She knows when I haven’t given something 100%, and won’t let me get away with it!

Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Salty, fresh ocean air, and bacon in the pan!

Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Family, Strength, and Love!