Eric was employed with NB coal for 30+ years and was proud of his coal mining roots.

He served as UMWA president for a number of years, a role that he took great pride in.

In 2002 following in his late mother Andrea's footsteps, Eric sought election for village council.

He served 2 terms as Deputy Mayor before running for the Mayor’s seat in 2008.

He went on to serve 2 terms as Mayor and credits his success on council to the hard working mayors and councillors that he had the privilege to work with.