Janette McMurtrie, PhD

Media Releases

Helping Others Soar—In the Cockpit, the Counseling Room, the Boardroom, and Beyond

Janette McMurtrie, PhD, a remarkable figure in service, leadership, and compassion, is celebrated as a true “Jill of All Trades.” With a career spanning over five decades across aviation, psychology, law enforcement, ministry, entrepreneurship, and education, Dr. McMurtrie’s life work is a testament to her unwavering commitment to helping others thrive in every aspect of their lives.

Her journey began in law enforcement, where she served with distinction as a Deputy Sheriff for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department from 1977 to 2000. Over 23 years, Dr. McMurtrie specialized in trauma response, negotiations, tactical strategy, and training, ultimately rising to the role of Training Officer and Background Investigator. Her experience in this high-stakes environment honed her skills in leadership and crisis management, preparing her for the diverse paths that lay ahead.

Simultaneously, Dr. McMurtrie pursued a passion for aviation. After completing her degree in Aviation Management from Thomas Edison State College, she embarked on a storied aviation career. Serving as Chief Pilot and Check Airman with American Eagle Airlines for over a decade, Dr. McMurtrie joined American Airlines in 1987. She captained various aircraft, including the Boeing 767/757 and 737, and continues to impart her knowledge as a Simulator Pilot Instructor at the American Airlines Flight Academy, even after her retirement as Captain in 2022.

Her dedication to education did not stop at aviation. Dr. McMurtrie earned advanced academic degrees from Trinity College of Graduate Studies, including a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and Master’s degrees in Counseling Psychology and Pastoral Counseling. Today, she operates DJM Innovative Solutions, a private practice focused on strategic planning, conflict management, leadership training, and aviation safety consultations. Dr. McMurtrie has empowered hundreds of aviators to navigate the complexities of their careers, offering support that fosters emotional well-being and practical success.

In addition to her work in aviation and psychology, Dr. McMurtrie serves as an Ordained Chaplain with the International Alliance of Chaplain Corps. She volunteers during times of crisis, providing support in traumatic events and officiating ceremonies such as baptisms, marriages, and memorials. Her compassionate approach ensures that she meets people where they are, helping them move forward with grace and understanding.

As a seasoned entrepreneur, Dr. McMurtrie has owned and operated businesses in various industries, including a flight school, brewery, and furniture manufacturing company. Her leadership experience spans numerous domains, showcasing her unique blend of practical business acumen and heart-centered guidance, which allows her to inspire and uplift those around her.

A passionate mentor and educator, Dr. McMurtrie plays an essential role in Women in Aviation International (WAI). For nearly a decade, she has taught workshops on leadership, finance, retirement, and aviation-related mental health, significantly impacting the community. As Vice President of the North Texas Chapter, she has been instrumental in the organization’s success, stepping in for the President when needed, chairing the Girls in Aviation Day Planning Committee, and serving on all committees alongside the President. Her dedication was recognized with the WAI International’s 2020 Bruce Baty Volunteer of the Year Award, a testament to her influence on the aviation community.

Now residing just outside of Dallas, Texas, Dr. McMurtrie is also a proud mother and grandmother, finding joy in her family and community service. Widowed yet unwavering in her purpose, she remains committed to helping others achieve their potential.

Dr. McMurtrie’s greatest passion is inspiring individuals to pursue their dreams, instilling a “Yes I Can” attitude in both children and adults. Whether in a classroom, cockpit, counseling session, or seminar, she brings unmatched experience, authenticity, and heart to everything she does. 

Recommended Articles

• What is a Glycemic Index Diet?

  The low glycemic diet, or the GI diet, as it is popularly known as, is a tool commonly used in weight loss programs. Many diet plans are based on this tool, including South Beach, Nutrisystem, The Zone, Sugar Busters, Glucose Revolution, and Ending the Food Fight. Glycemic index (GI) was...

• Can Sinusitis Cause Vomiting?

  Can Sinusitis Cause Vomiting?Sinusitis is a medical condition that can be accompanied by a wide range of symptoms. The symptoms vary between individuals and also between adults and children. Yes, sinusitis can cause vomiting, but it occurs only in specific or rare cases, usually when the condition...

• Is Gluten Sensitivity for Life?

  Gluten sensitivity on any level can usher in a slew of problems for many individuals. Viewed as a rising problem in the world today, more research and options are readily available on this topic. There can be conflicting research out there, as the topic is still being studied more predominantly than...

• Alongside Lupus: Digital Companionship for Lupus Patients

  Lupus has been discussed on television shows like House M.D, E.R, in movies like Gross Anatomy, and even in entertainment news with headlines reading Selena Gomez’ Lupus. But, not everyone knows exactly what lupus is. Despite the mentions of lupus in some television shows, movies and headlines,...

• 7 Tips to Keep Patients Exercising with Type 2 Diabetes

  When you are first diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, you are determined to take all the necessary steps and control it. You vow that you will exercise, and that you will follow the recommendations of your doctors. Unfortunately, just like many resolutions, you may not actually keep them. ...

• What Is Sputum?

  Sputum is a combination of mucus coughed up from the respiratory tract and saliva. It is usually a result of diseases or infections. Phlegm and sputum are often interchangeably used. Sometimes, the term mucus is used when referring to sputum or phlegm. However, mucus is also produced in the...