At Special Services Corporation, every flight depends on skill, preparation, and people who take the responsibility of aviation seriously. This month, we are highlighting Joe Sturgis, whose path at SSC began as an internship and has grown into a full-time flying career.

From Intern to First Officer

Joe joined SSC as an intern in the summer of 2023 while studying business administration and aviation at Bob Jones University. He was looking for a place where he could connect what he was learning in the classroom with real-world experience in business aviation.

SSC was a natural fit. Located near his flight school and recommended by friends, it gave Joe a closer look at aircraft operations, client service, and the day-to-day work that happens behind every safe and successful flight.

That internship became the beginning of a larger career path. Today, Joe serves as a first officer with SSC.

A Lifelong Interest in Aviation

Joe’s interest in aviation started early. Growing up in Atlanta, he remembers watching and listening to Delta jets overhead. That early fascination grew through high school and became more serious through his involvement with the Civil Air Patrol.

Flight simulators, training, and exposure to the aviation community helped turn that childhood interest into a clear professional goal: a career in the cockpit.

Flying Today at SSC

Joe currently flies SSC’s Citation light jets and Citation XLS fleet. Earlier in his time with SSC, he flew the Pilatus PC-12 and King Air 200, giving him experience across both turboprop and jet operations.

That variety has helped shape his appreciation for the aircraft, the mission, and the people involved in each trip.

“I love my job,” Joe says. “I heard that if you find a job you love, you’ll never work a day in your life, and so far I haven’t worked a day at SSC.”

For Joe, the best parts of the job include flying, working with the SSC team, traveling to new places, and helping passengers get where they need to go safely and comfortably.

“Getting paid to fly airplanes is pretty fantastic,” he says. “I love the people I work with. SSC has hired some really fantastic people, and I really enjoy hanging out with the other pilots. I also enjoy getting to help our customers. I find a lot of satisfaction in getting passengers from point A to point B and trying to make their experience as amazing as possible.”

Life Beyond the Cockpit

Joe’s sense of adventure does not stop when the flight is over. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time outdoors through hiking, mountain biking, paddleboarding, and exploring new places. From major trails like the Grand Canyon to local outdoor activities, he brings the same curiosity and energy to his personal life that he brings to aviation.

Growing with SSC

Joe’s journey from intern to first officer reflects the kind of growth that can happen when talent, hard work, and opportunity come together. His story is also a reminder that aviation careers are built step by step through training, mentorship, experience, and a commitment to doing the job well.

SSC is proud to have Joe as part of the flight crew and grateful for the care he brings to each passenger experience.

Please join us in congratulating Joe Sturgis on his continued growth with SSC and his commitment to safe, professional, and dependable flight operations.