Byrd graduated in 1973 from Lillington High School and in 1977 from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington with a degree in sociology and criminal justice.

Byrd first worked at Harnett Correctional Center through Johnston Technical College before becoming a correction employee. He started as a program assistant, then program supervisor at the Harnett prison. During his time there, he received the outstanding young correctional officer award from the local Jaycees.

Byrd moved to staff training in 1988 and became an instructor of Basic Training for the Division of Staff Training and Development. In 1990, Byrd was promoted to training coordinator, and in 1996 to the assistant to the Basic Training operations manager.