Sammy Turner is a pilot for our Embraer 140/145 fleet. He joined Envoy in November 2016 and upgraded to Captain at the end of 2017.

What is the best advice you’ve received?
My dad taught me to always be a person of integrity. Always do a job the right way the first time – if you don’t, someone has to come behind you and correct your mess!

What keeps you motivated in a fast-pasted industry like aviation?
I’m lucky to be doing a job that I love. Most of the time I feel don’t feel like I’m “working” at work. Pilot schedules aren’t 8-5 Mon-Fri, so I take advantage of my off days when I can and spend time hanging with friends and family.

What’s the most rewarding part of your current position?
Upgrading to Captain was a big career milestone for me. It’s an honor to be entrusted with such a responsibility. Growing up, I never saw black airline pilots. I loved airplanes and had dreams of being a pilot, but was discouraged. I didn’t see anyone who looked like me (except for the Tuskegee Airmen) that I could look up to. For me, one of the most rewarding parts of this job is having an opportunity to be that person that kids can look up to. I’m trying to pay it forward for those who paved a road (or a runway) for me.

What might people not know about you?
I grew up in Prosper, Texas, which is near Dallas. In 2001, I was the first black student to graduate at my high school.