Air Force Veteran pilots new business through Mosquito Joe

Jeff Deiters a Chicago-native-turned-Virginia-local (but still no ketchup on the hotdogs) has been flying planes for as long as he can remember and spends a bulk of his time up in the sky.

Jeff met his wife, Annette, at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado –both are veterans of the United States Air Force. For 22 years, Jeff flew out of Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland, home of two Boeing VC-25A aircrafts – also known as Air Force One when the president is on board. After 21 years of service, Jeff left the military life and became a corporate pilot, flying for brands such as Under Armour and Choice Hotels. He remains in commercial aviation while Annette flies Boeing 767s internationally out of Washington-Dulles airport for United Airlines.

While the two know how to navigate the skies, they are now learning the ropes on navigating their own business. The couple still flies extensively, but the Deiters wanted to fill their time on the ground with a supplemental business opportunity, so started exploring new ventures for ownership. Jeff was introduced to Mosquito Joe* by his fellow pilot friend and Mosquito Joe franchisee, Kurt Godwin. Jeff immediately gravitated toward the concept, as it was not only a good business model, but also provided massive benefits to his community.

“I’ve seen mosquitos all around the world, and they’re the worst in Virginia,” Jeff said.

Jeff and Annette purchased the Fredericksburg and Stafford, Virginia territory, which they own and operate while remaining full-time pilots by trade. The territory is extensive which makes for a challenge, but Jeff and Annette have seen great success since opening their territory.

“Being a veteran, you develop a sense of dedication that carries through everything you do in life. We always had our crews and our airmen and we took care of each other,” Jeff added. “There is always a sense of doing the right thing and doing a good job.”

Jeff jokes his office is like a small Air Force squadron and he enjoys the aspect of meeting people, going out on jobs and seeing the brand grow and develop in the area.

“We pride ourselves for being in the service industry that provides a benefit to our neighbors,” he added.