In HS
McLaughlin is a graduate of Maize HS where he earned All-State honors in track and field.

At ESU
2020-21: McLaughlin will begin his collegiate career with the Hornets where he will continue to improve his hurdling technique. McLaughlin opened up at the UCM Invitational where he ran 8.73 in the 60 meter hurdles. The following week at the Wendy's/PSU MIAA Challenge, McLaughlin set a PR in the 60 hurdles by running 8.63. Moving into the outdoor season, McLaughlin's best 110 meter hurdle race came at the Midwest Classic where he ran 15.23.

Personal
Born February 22, 2002...son of Kevin and Brenda McLaughlin...has four siblings, Nick, Maci, Tyler, and Megan...majoring in Healthcare Biology.