 He attended the University of New South Wales where he graduated with honours in the degree of Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical).Between 1986 and 1992 he was employed as an engineer and also a Territory Manager for Shell Australia.Humpherson entered politics on 14 March 1987 as an independent Councillor on Warringah Shire Council and was Deputy Shire President from 1991–1992 until he resigned on 30 May 1992, following his election to state parliament.