posted October 30, 2025

Shining a Spotlight on AirLIFE TEXAS Lead Pilot Steve Irving

TAYLOR, TX — October 30, 2025 — In recognition of Veterans Day on Nov. 11, Air Methods proudly honors the military veterans who make up more than one-third of its workforce, bringing leadership, precision, and mission-focused excellence to every part of the company. Among those veterans is AirLIFE TEXAS Lead Pilot Steve Irving, whose 27 years of distinguished military service and deep commitment to safety, leadership, and service make him a model teammate and an inspiration to others. AirLIFE TEXAS is part of Air Methods, the nation’s leading emergency air medical service provider.

After retiring from the U.S. Army—where he served as a Scout Pilot, Apache Attack Pilot, and Aviation Operations Officer with the 101st Airborne Division, including five combat deployments—Irving chose to begin his civilian aviation career with Air Methods in 2022. It was more than a job, it was the start of a new mission.

“The transition from the military to civilian life is no small task,” said Iring. “But what made it easier for me was finding a place like Air Methods, an organization full of veterans, built on servant leadership, and committed to real safety, not just words on a poster.”

Irving first flew with Air Methods for its partner program in Massachusetts, piloting the LIFE STAR program out of Hartford Hospital. While his time flying for Air Methods was met with collaboration, a safety-focused mindset, and centered on respect and teamwork, a personal relocation to Texas led him to eventually explore different opportunities. Following his brief departure, it didn’t take long for Irving to realize that the culture he left behind at Air Methods was unmatched.

“I joined a different air medical company, and I felt the leadership style and company culture didn’t fit my values,” said Irving. “They didn’t issue the best equipment, from helmets to uniforms. There seemed to be a little less focus on safety and more pressure to fly no matter what. I knew I had to get back to Air Methods.”

He stayed in touch with the Air Methods Talent Acquisition team, who remembered his passion and dedication.

“Even after Steve’s initial departure, he stayed connected with our recruiting team,” said Britt Conley, Air Methods Director of Talent Acquisition. “His professionalism, strong reputation, and commitment to safety and teamwork made him someone we are always eager to welcome back to Air Methods.”

Now serving as Lead Pilot at Air Methods’ brand-new base in Taylor, TX— AirLIFE TEXAS 2—Irving is helping build an air medical base from the ground up.

“It’s very exciting that I get to be part of something new, to recreate the culture I loved from my LIFE STAR days. We’re hiring new crews, setting the tone, and making sure safety, trust, and teamwork are at the heart of everything we do. Safety isn’t just a tagline, it’s a real mindset, enacted from top to bottom,” said Irving. “At Air Methods, you look forward to coming to work. You’re supported. You’re respected. From the executive team to your manager, everyone’s invested in your well-being and success.”

Veterans at Air Methods find a welcoming environment, excellent pay, work-life balance, and the chance to build a second career, whether moving laterally to new or existing bases or advancing into leadership roles. Irving’s story is a testament to the company’s commitment to helping veterans thrive, both professionally and personally.

Irving’s long-term vision includes continuing to grow within the company, with aspirations to move into roles like Regional Aviation Manager or even Director of Operations one day. But his mission today is clear, to build a safe, positive, high-performing base that delivers unmatched care to the people of Texas.

Air Methods is dedicated to serving patients across Texas with both the best in clinical quality during transport and first-rate patient advocacy once the transport is complete. The company is in-network with most health insurance providers, and the Air Methods patient advocacy program works with all patients, regardless of insurance, to help ensure the affordability of air medical services. Under federal law, patients cannot be charged more than the co-pay, deductible, or maximum out-of-pocket amount outlined in their insurance policy. Air medical transport is fully covered under Medicaid and many Medicare Part B plans.

As Air Methods honors all those who have served this Veterans Day, we salute Irving, not just for his military service, but for the continued impact he makes every day as a leader, mentor, and teammate.