Dr. Nerio is a native of Lakewood. He attended Lochburn Junior High, and graduated from Clover Park High in 1979. He attended Walla Walla College and Andrews University, graduating with a double Bachelors of Science degree in Clinical Chemistry and Medical Technology (MT ASCP) in 1984.

From there he attended Loma Linda University School of Dentistry and graduated with a Doctor in Dental Surgery degree in 1988.

Dr. Nerio sought to serve the Indian Health Services both in Ft. Yates, North Dakota and San Jacinto, California. He gained invaluable insight and experience serving the Native American people.

He had also practiced general dentistry in Southern California for several years before entering and completing a post-doctoral training program at the University of Michigan.

He earned a Masters of Science degree in Periodontics during his two years in the program. He presently resides in Lakewood.