After moving overseas and accepting an entry level accounting role on an Air Force base in England, Danielle Ruhl discovered a natural aptitude for organization, numbers and problem-solving. She found the field of finance deeply fulfilling and went on to pursue a degree and career in accounting at Colorado Technical University. Upon graduation, she worked as a retail corporate accounting for Jacksons Food Stores, then moved to Jackson Energy, where she worked for more than three years. Ruhl joined the team as the controller of Jackson Jet Center in 2021 and today, oversees all aspects of financial report, monitors cash flow and forecasting, and maintains internal controls to safeguard company assets.
“I’m inspired by the people I work with,” she said. “When a team comes together to solve challenges, meet deadlines and deliver results, it reminds me that great things happen when everyone is committed to the same goal.”
Throughout Ruhl’s career in finance, she said that one of the biggest lessons she’s learned is the importance of accountability and ownership.
“I’ve always taken great pride in delivering accurate, timely work and holding myself to a high standard of excellence,” she explained. “Throughout my career, that has often meant putting in late hours after my son went to bed or working weekends to ensure deadlines were met and my work was precise. I also developed a reputation as a team player − someone willing to step in and take on tasks that others couldn’t complete to ensure the business succeeded.”
Ruhl names Jeff Jackson, CEO of Jackson Jet Center, and Jason Manning, CFO of Jacksons Food Stores as key mentors in her life.
She shared, “Collectively they taught me that excellence in finance isn’t just about accuracy and results − it’s about curiosity, integrity and continuous improvement. They encouraged me to ask questions, to understand the ‘why’ behind every number, and to always look for ways to make processes better. They’ve taught me that excellence isn’t about being perfect − it’s about being committed, consistent and open to learning.”
Ten years from now, Ruhl hopes to continue to grow at Jackson Jet Center and someday, hopes to work in a chief financial officer role and support strategic growth across multiple locations.
“I’m passionate about the aviation industry and want to keep strengthening my skills, confidence and leadership to help guide Jackson Jet’s next decade of success,” she said.