J. Scot Heathman’s life is marked by a desire to shoot for the skies. Raised in Minnesota with traditional Midwest values, he was an active participant in school, sports, and his community. However, his greatest passion emerged at just 3 years old, when he saw Star Wars in the theater for the first time. That day, he knew he was destined to fly airplanes. This dream prompted a 25-year career in the Air Force, during which time he became a combat instructor pilot and base commander serving 14,000 personnel.

Throughout his career, Scot learned the importance of relatability and resiliency, and became a respected servant leader. In 2019, however, that resiliency would be tested beyond anything he had ever experienced. He was in a car accident and after an MRI of his head, doctors discovered that he had a brain tumor.  The next year was spent in observation, followed by an eleven-hour surgery and thirty rounds of radiation, while still serving as Base Commander for much of that time.  This experience taught him how impactful his own lessons could be in inspiring others and prompted a unique opportunity to elevate others.