Military & Aviation Career

Justin Colella began his military career in 2012 when he joined the United States Air Force as an air traffic controller, a role reserved for individuals trusted with precision, accountability, and significant operational risk. He was assigned to Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, where he completed an accelerated 15-month certification program to earn Federal Aviation Administration Control Tower Operator qualification, a rigorous achievement that typically requires four to five years to complete in the civilian sector. 

As his experience grew, Justin advanced into training and supervisory roles, assuming responsibility for overseeing air traffic control operations and leading training operations. As Training Supervisor, Justin redefined the air traffic control training program to improve readiness and performance. He administered training for more than 12 controllers, from newly graduated trainees to airfield leadership, introducing real-world operational scenarios and advanced simulations. These changes shortened qualification timelines, strengthened operational consistency, and increased certification success rates to 95 percent, significantly exceeding Air Force averages while improving long-term retention and stability.

Justin’s sustained performance and leadership were formally recognized through promotion to Non-Commissioned Officer and the award of the Air Force Achievement Medal for Meritorious Service, honoring multiple years of exceptional contribution. During his service, he directed air traffic operations safeguarding more than $4.7 billion in Air Force assets, was named Air Traffic Controller of the Quarter, and served federally and internationally as a certified Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) control tower operator, including overseas assignments supporting joint and coalition operations. 

In these roles, Justin directed complex aircraft missions where precision, timing, and clear communication were critical to safety and mission success. He consistently demonstrated sound judgment under pressure and the ability to lead effectively in fast-paced, high-consequence environments. Today, Justin brings this same operational rigor to the banking sector to protect financial institutions from costly vendor decisions and long-term contractual risk.