John Hickey came to Twin Falls, Labrador, in 1962, and graduated from JR Smallwood Collegiate in Wabush. He lived in Churchill Falls, Labrador West and is currently a resident of Happy Valley - Goose Bay. He is a graduate of the College of the North Atlantic as a high voltage linesman. He has spent his working career of 25 years with Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro, where he has held various positions including senior management serving communities throughout Labrador.

Mr. Hickey has served the citizens of Happy Valley-Goose Bay for 16 years as mayor, deputy mayor and councillor. He has held the position of president for the Combined Councils of Labrador and served as a National Director for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities representing the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Mr. Hickey has volunteered his time as a Director for the Goose Bay Airport Corporation (GBAC), a Director on the Central Labrador Economic Development Board (CLEDB), and a member of the Labrador North Chamber of Commerce (LNCC). In March of 2003, he received the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal from the Governor General of Canada, which is bestowed upon individuals who make significant contributions to their community and regions. Currently he is a member of the Goose Bay Citizens Coalition for 5 Wing Goose Bay.

For the past 15 years, he has been a strong voice in the community championing the many issues at hand. As the MHA for Lake Melville, he is committed to working to "maximize the benefits" of Labrador's natural resources for all Labradorians.

On October 21, 2003, Mr. Hickey was elected as the Member of the House of Assembly for the Lake Melville District. He was appointed Minister of Transportation and Works and Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs on July 5, 2006.

After the 2007 provincial general election, Mr. Hickey was appointed as Minister of Labrador Affairs.