As green leaves turn to bare, brown limbs, and warm mornings in t-shirts turn to gloved hands and ski jackets, we perennially look back, celebrating the milestones and remembering some of those who have left us. That’s how it always is, and it’s good. We also look forward, thinking about how we can better ourselves, challenge ourselves, and become more productive. That’s good, too.
Stevens Aerospace & Defense Systems is one of those companies with a long history – one that didn’t always involve aviation. J.P. Stevens & Co. started in the 1800s as a textiles manufacturer on the East Coast of the U.S. It was eventually split up and divided into multiple companies after private equity took over, but along the way, its flight department, which had grown to be more than a flight department, continued under the Stevens name.
I have written about Stevens in T&T several times, but when an aviation company reaches a milestone like achieving 75 years of success, it makes sense to celebrate it again and again. Congratulations to Tom Foley, Christian Sasfai, and Phil Stearns. There are a lot more people at Stevens to congratulate for making their story a successful one, but those are the three I know.
Every year, someone leaves us who has imprinted a permanent and lasting influence. This year, we say goodbye to Pat Epps. I wrote about the Epps family and Pat’s enduring legacy while he was still with us in 2022. That story is republished here this month.
The southeast general aviation environment wouldn’t be the same without the hard work, foresight, and a little bit of luck that Pat Epps brought. Pat encouraged the excitement of aviation for younger generations (like mine). He endeavored to accomplish feats that others couldn’t. His spirit was one that lasted until his passing, and the aviation world is better for his being a part of it. Many thanks to Pat and the Epps family for bringing that spirit to us for so many years.
Looking ahead to the new year is invariably an occasion filled with good energy and sensations of growth and newness. I envision lots of great things for 2026. Let’s celebrate 2025, say goodbye to and remember those who have been meaningful to us, and look toward a new season of possibility.
Thank you to all of our readers and those who write and publish this magazine. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
