Rep. Cecil Brockman, D-Guilford, is one of the younger House Democrats but is now one of his party’s more experienced legislators. He joined the House in 2015, replacing Rep. Marcus Brandon, who he’d previously worked for.

The High Point native was one of the only LGBT members of the legislature when he came out as bisexual in 2016. This session, he’s sponsored bills including a “Retail Workers’ Bill of Rights,” a proposal to expand pre-kindergarten funding and a proposal to add a “segregation score” to school report cards.

Age: 37

What are some of the past jobs you’ve held outside of state government? When I was in high school, my first jobs were at Chick-fil-A and my local movie theater. When I got to college I worked at the Olive Garden and Cheddars.

What lessons from those roles have you applied to your current position? The lesson I’ve learned from those positions is how to take criticism from people who aren’t satisfied with you or your work.

If you could enact a single piece of legislation into law today, what would it be? I would enact a universal income that would include a living wage of 15 dollars an hour. I believe anyone willing to work should have access to a job and wage that would allow them to provide for their family.

Where do you most enjoy taking an out-of-town visitor in your district? Becky’s & Mary’s soul food restaurant or BBQ Joes.

What is your favorite hobby outside of work? I love to play tennis.

Who do you most admire, and why? My mom. When my father died, she was all my sister and I had. She not only provided for us but sacrificed everything so we would be happy kids and successful adults.

What’s the best advice you’ve received about how to get legislation passed? Be willing to not take any of the credit.