McMillan grew up in the community of Stockton in Baldwin County. After attending Stockton School and Baldwin County High School, McMillan attended Rhodes College where he earned a BA in economics.His interest in agriculture began at a young age while working on his uncle’s farm and in his father’s sawmill. After college, he continued to work at the family sawmill for nearly 20 years. Over the years, McMillan’s life’s work continued to focus on agri-business, forest products, wildlife protection, natural resource management and the protection of private property rights.
McMillan has served on the Baldwin County Commission, was twice elected as a State Representative, served as Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation & Natural Resources, and served many years on the State Personnel Board. In addition to his public service, McMillan was Executive Vice President of the Alabama Forestry Association for over 20 years. In 2010, he was elected as Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries.
Besides an enthusiasm for community and public service, McMillan loves hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities.
He and his wife, Kathryn, have two sons, a daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren.