Sean and Sara Bess are no strangers to discipline, dedication and teamwork. Their shared military service shaped their lives and laid the foundation for their entrepreneurial journey. Today, the couple runs Mosquito Joe of Northwest Florida, a thriving franchise that helps families reclaim their outdoor spaces. Their story is a testament to how skills honed in the military can translate into success in the business world.
A Foundation of Service
The Bess family’s journey began in 1998 when Sean and Sara were commissioned as officers in the Air Force. An Air Force Academy graduate, Sean pursued pilot training and later excelled in the prestigious Fighter Weapons Instructor Course. Sara, a graduate of the University of Kansas and its ROTC program, became one of the first 10 women to achieve combat mission readiness in the F-15E. Their paths crossed at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base during training, and their mutual love of aviation blossomed into a partnership that has spanned decades.
Their military careers are marked by accolades and achievements. Sara flew combat missions during Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, earning six Air Medals and other commendations. Sean, a decorated pilot with 10 Air Medals, was commander of the 84 Test and Evaluation Squadron and named Outstanding Aircrew Member in the Air Force Reserve.
Despite their impressive military credentials, the couple is most proud of their family. After Sara transitioned to civilian life to focus on raising their four children, Sean continued his service in the Air Force Reserve. Together, they navigated the challenges of military life while fostering a deep bond rooted in shared values and mutual support.
Challenges into Opportunities
In 2013, the Bess family moved to Florida, ready for a new chapter. But as their young children played outside, they encountered an unexpected problem: relentless mosquitoes. The discomfort led Sara to search for solutions, but nothing worked. Around the same time, Sean began contemplating life after active duty.
Conversations with friends led them to franchising. Sean’s interest in business and Sara’s knack for problem-solving set the stage for their venture. They learned about Mosquito Joe, a Neighborly company, and saw an opportunity to meet a community need while creating a flexible business aligned with their family’s priorities.
In 2015, they launched Mosquito Joe of Northwest Florida, serving families across the Emerald Coast. Sara took charge of day-to-day operations, marketing and bookkeeping, while Sean balanced his military duties and strategic planning for the business.
Military Mindset in Business
The discipline and leadership skills Sean and Sara developed in the military became invaluable in their entrepreneurial journey. “The military taught us to trust the process, lead with integrity and foster a strong team culture,” Sean shared. “We’ve built a business where our team feels excited to come to work, and that makes all the difference.”
The franchise model also appealed to their structured approach. “Having a proven process to follow, along with a network of other franchisees, has been incredibly helpful,” Sara noted. “It’s like having a squadron of peers to collaborate with and learn from.”
Their military training also prepared them for the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. “In both the military and business, you’re often making decisions with imperfect information,” Sara explained. “You have to adapt, measure outcomes and adjust accordingly. It’s a continuous learning process.”
Family-Focused Vision
For Sean and Sara, entrepreneurship was as much about family as it was about business. Sean sought to spend more time with their children, tired of missing milestones due to military commitments. “We wanted a business that supported our family life, not one that dominated it,” Sean said.
Their advice to aspiring entrepreneurs—especially veterans—is rooted in their experience. “Do your research and make sure the business fits your lifestyle,” Sean emphasized. “And surround yourself with people you trust who can provide perspective and support.”
Building a Legacy
As they look to the future, the Bess family is excited about the continued growth of Mosquito Joe of Northwest Florida. Sean is preparing to take on a more significant role as he transitions from his military career, while Sara reflects on how far they’ve come.
“What started as a solution to our mosquito problem has become something much bigger,” Sara said. “We’ve built a business that makes a difference in our community and provides for our family. It’s been a whirlwind, but we wouldn’t trade it for anything.”
For Sean and Sara, their journey proves that the values of service, resilience and teamwork can transcend the battlefield—and help create a life of purpose and success.
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