Dr Steve Scheibner: The Pilot Who Missed 9/11 and Found His Life’s Purpose
Introduction
In a world often driven by fame and fortune, few lives exemplify faith, humility, and divine purpose quite like Dr Steve Scheibner. A man of multiple callings – pilot, pastor, author, husband, and father – his story is one of miraculous providence and unwavering dedication. Known widely for his near miss on September 11, 2001, when he was originally scheduled to pilot American Airlines Flight 11, Dr Scheibner’s life took on new meaning after that fateful day. What followed was a journey marked by reflection, service, and an enduring mission to shape the next generation through character-driven leadership and faith-based values.
Early Life and Education
Born on 21 October 1960 in Royal Oak, Michigan, Steve Scheibner’s childhood was grounded in modest beginnings. His parents both worked for the Michigan Central Railroad, instilling in him the virtues of hard work, responsibility, and integrity from an early age. These foundational values would later influence his teachings and personal philosophy.
Steve pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from West Chester University, demonstrating both analytical skill and leadership potential. After graduation, he sought a life of adventure and service, joining the United States Navy, where his life’s journey truly began to take flight.
The Naval Pilot Years
Flying for the U.S. Navy
As a naval aviator, Scheibner flew the P-3 Orion, a maritime patrol aircraft, and completed three major deployments within four years. His time in the Navy was not merely a career but a character-building chapter that taught him discipline, courage, and teamwork. He quickly rose through the ranks, gaining respect for his precision and calm leadership in the air.
Transitioning to Civilian Aviation
In 1991, after years of active duty, Steve transitioned to civilian aviation, joining American Airlines as a commercial pilot. His flying career was flourishing, offering him both stability and the excitement of global travel. However, what he could not foresee was that one scheduling change in September 2001 would alter the trajectory of his life forever.
The Day That Changed Everything – 11 September 2001
The Flight He Never Took
In the days leading up to 9/11, Steve was scheduled to fly American Airlines Flight 11 from Boston to Los Angeles. On the night before the flight, a last-minute change occurred – another pilot, Tom McGuinness, was assigned to take his place. The next morning, that same flight became the first aircraft hijacked and crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center.
When news broke, Steve and his wife, Megan, sat in stunned silence. The reality that he had been within hours of being onboard the doomed flight struck deeply. It was a moment that redefined his understanding of life, mortality, and divine providence. He often reflects that “Tom McGuinness died in my seat,” a truth that became the cornerstone of his later message on living a life worthy of the gift of time.
A New Purpose
This profound experience shifted Steve’s outlook entirely. Rather than returning to routine flying, he turned to introspection and faith. The question “Why was I spared?” guided his steps toward ministry, family leadership, and helping others find meaning in their lives.
From Pilot to Pastor – A Ministry of Character and Faith
Academic Pursuits and Theological Growth
Driven by a thirst to understand God’s purpose, Scheibner pursued a Master’s Degree in Theological Studies and another in Christian Ministries, eventually earning his Doctor of Ministry (D.Min) from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. His doctoral research explored the role of parents in character formation, which became the foundation for much of his later teaching.
Founding Characterhealth Corporation
Together with his wife Megan, Steve founded Characterhealth Corporation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to equipping parents, educators, and church leaders to raise a generation grounded in integrity, discipline, and strong moral values. Their programmes focus on character-based leadership and biblical parenting principles, reaching families and communities across the United States and beyond.
Family Life and Homeschooling
Marriage and Partnership with Megan
Steve and Megan met during their university years and married in July 1984. Their union has been both personal and professional, as they co-author books, host seminars, and mentor families together. Megan, an author and speaker in her own right, has been instrumental in shaping the family’s shared mission.
Raising a Family of Faith
The Scheibners are parents to eight children, all of whom were homeschooled. Their home environment has always been one of encouragement, discipline, and faith-centred education. They have become a model for Christian homeschooling families, demonstrating that education is not merely academic but deeply moral and spiritual.
The Power of Story – “In My Seat”
A Story of Redemption and Responsibility
Dr Scheibner’s widely viewed testimony, “In My Seat: A Pilot’s Story from September 10–11,” tells the remarkable account of his near miss on 9/11. The story gained global attention, inspiring audiences with its message of gratitude and purpose. Through the narrative, Steve draws a powerful parallel between his personal salvation from physical death and the spiritual salvation offered through Christ.
Impact and Recognition
The video version of In My Seat has reached millions worldwide, and Steve’s story has been featured at conferences, churches, and educational institutions. It continues to serve as a reminder that life is fragile, and that every day presents an opportunity to live intentionally and serve others selflessly.
Teaching Character and Leadership
America’s Parenting Doctor
Referred to by many as “America’s Parenting Doctor,” Dr Steve Scheibner has authored and taught a number of resources, including Parenting Matters: The Nine Practices of the Pro-Active Parent. His teachings encourage parents to take a proactive, not reactive, role in their children’s development, emphasising consistency, empathy, and moral strength.
Leadership Beyond the Family
Steve also speaks extensively to corporate and church leaders, blending his aviation experience with leadership lessons. He often compares the precision and discipline required in flight to the focus and integrity needed in leadership roles. His talks highlight the importance of character before competence, a principle that resonates deeply in today’s leadership landscape.
Legacy and Continuing Influence
Life Lessons and Faith
Dr Scheibner’s story remains one of divine intervention and faithful response. Rather than succumbing to survivor’s guilt, he chose to see his spared life as a mission – to lead others towards purposeful, God-honouring living. His message is clear: every individual has a unique seat to fill in life’s journey, and it must be occupied with intention, gratitude, and courage.
Continuing His Mission
Today, Steve continues to serve as a pastor, speaker, and mentor, balancing his aviation career with ministry. His influence stretches across continents, as he equips parents, leaders, and young people to live lives rooted in truth, service, and faith.
Conclusion
Dr Steve Scheibner’s life embodies the intersection of divine providence and human responsibility. From the cockpit of a Navy aircraft to the pulpit of faith and family, he has shown that purpose often emerges through life’s narrow escapes and unexpected turns. His message is timeless – live each day as though it were borrowed, because, in many ways, it is.
Through his leadership, teachings, and unwavering faith, Dr Steve Scheibner continues to inspire countless individuals to embrace character, lead with conviction, and cherish every moment as a gift meant to be lived fully and faithfully.
