Jackson is of slightly above average height, with a solid, though not profoundly muscular, build. He has a latino cast to his looks, with dark skin, eyes, and hair. The only thing that really marks him as being raised in The District is a faint drawl to his speech, especially when he is excited or stressed.

The District is a section of West Texas that strives to recreate conditions as they were on the American Frontier, circa 1877. Obviously they aren't completely successful, but the area is quite a tourist destination. The VanBuren family owns and operates the VB-Connected Ranch, where Jackson grew up. He was home schooled till he left for the Vulcan Science Academy.

He and his twin brother, Connor Richard(CR) spent their childhoods literally being trained as 19th century ranchers. They learned to care for the land, take care of horses and cattle, rope, and ride. Their access to 24th century technology was limited, mostly educational programs, and the occasional family trip outside the district. Jackson, or Jack as most of his friends call him, rebelled against these strictures, and left the District at age fourteen, having won a place at the Vulcan Science Academy.

At age 18, after two years of academic preparation, and two years of studies at the VSA, he transferred to Starfleet Academy, where he pursued dual tracks in science and engineering. After graduating the Academy, he returned to Vulcan, where he completed dual doctorates in Astrophysics and Space Systems Engineering.

Aside from his studies in engineering and science, Jack has an abiding interest in music of all sorts. He plays several instruments, most notably violin, guitar, and piano, with great skill. However, he really prefers to listen, especially to music that is of unfamiliar types. He does have some ability with a vulcan lyre, but prefers the violin. He truly hates being called 'JB' by anybody, especially family members.

Jack keeps himself in decent physical shape, well within Starfleet standards, though nothing exceptional. His measured mental acuity is quite pronounced, however.

Emotionally, he's a bit isolative, preferring when possible to be left alone to deal with scientific observations or some engineering problem. He's not unfriendly, but often comes across as distant.