About Me

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About Me

From my early days in the United States Air Force to my most recent ventures in the private sector, two passions have guided me: a commitment to excellence in aviation and a desire to make a meaningful impact in the community. My objective has always been straightforward: to elevate standards, empower teams, and contribute positively to the world around me.

Aviation Expertise

I served as a Helicopter Flight Engineer in the United States Air Force from March 2003 to August 2011. In this role, I qualified on multiple aircraft and was deployed to various combat zones, including austere locations in Africa, Iraq, and Afghanistan. My international work also extended to standardizing training for the (once) Afghan Air Force, Spanish Navy, and Colombian Air Force, as well as enriching my skills in cross-cultural communication and team management. Leveraging my extensive experience and connections, I gained a contract to provide consulting services to major aerospace companies. This includes diverse roles such as ScanEagle Designated Examiner, Pilot, and Maintenance Technician, furthering my expertise in aviation and project management.

My work in the private sector focuses on UAS operations and staffing. I promote job opportunities for UAS pilots to capture high-quality aerial footage and provide ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) support to military operations overseas. As the founder of JShults Enterprises, I oversee two businesses: Gorge XSports, which highlights extreme sports in the Columbia River Gorge, and UAS Staffing (name subject to change), dedicated to supporting the UAS industry.

Veteran Advocacy, Mental Health, and Educational Outreach

In my life after the military, I've focused on advocating for Veterans, particularly in the areas of mental health and educational outreach. Between March 2015 and December 2016, I served at the Divers Institute of Technology in Seattle, where I was both a Recruiter and Veterans Services Manager. I've also designed mentorship programs and life-skill courses aimed at helping Veterans transition back into civilian life. This multi-faceted approach is deeply influenced by my own experiences and aims to offer a holistic system of support.

The Entrepreneurial Spirit

In July 2021, I founded The Gorge Wine Barrel Guy in Stevenson, WA. What began as a small venture quickly saw remarkable success, selling over 120 units at an 80% markup within just a few weeks. This project lasted three years longer than projected and is still receiving orders despite being officially closed for business.

In 2024, I started Gorge XSports, a business dedicated to showcasing the extreme sports and athletes of the Columbia River Gorge. This venture has grown to include live event broadcasts, video production, and a robust online presence. Eventually, I restructured my ventures under the umbrella of JShults Enterprises LLC to better manage and expand my business interests. This restructuring has allowed me to streamline operations and create synergies across my various projects, including UAS Staffing and Gorge XSports.

Brand Ambassador & Content Creator

Aside from my career in aviation and advocacy, I've also explored other avenues like brand ambassadorship and content creation. I serve as a brand ambassador for a local ski and snowboard company, a role that allows me to combine my love for the outdoors with promotional activities. My blogging project has evolved into a profitable endeavor, covering topics from adventure sports in the Columbia River Gorge to gear reviews for wind and snow sports.

The Impact and Beyond

Ultimately, my goal is to create a long-lasting, positive impact, especially for veterans. I aspire not just to offer immediate assistance but also to establish a sustainable foundation for broader change across various sectors and communities.

With diverse operational experience and a steadfast commitment to excellence, I am well-positioned to make meaningful contributions in multiple fields, from aviation to advocacy to entrepreneurship. If you're interested in connecting for collaboration or idea-sharing, I welcome the opportunity to engage.