From Military Service to Artemis CEO, Luke Sturges Continues Mission-Focused Work

Why did you decide to start a government consulting business?

When I was in the service, I helped the military branch of government fulfill its mission efficiently and effectively. When I left, I wanted to continue to have a public impact. I wanted to be able to transfer my skills and continue supporting government missions by providing high-quality services to federal agencies. I also wanted to do something that would keep me on my toes — keep my brain working and my skills sharp.

How did your military service prepare you for the role of company CEO?

I developed leadership skills in the service that are crucial for running a company. With experience leading high-performing teams and delivering innovative solutions, I’m able to consistently drive company growth and operational excellence. I also learned the value of teamwork. As a military working dog handler/military police officer, I had to work closely with others to make sure our dogs and soldiers were ready to perform their duties at all times: between the people and the dogs, there were a lot of moving parts. We faced challenges every day and had to figure out how to overcome those challenges together, using teamwork and drawing on collective experience.

Strategic thinking and crisis management are other skills I have developed that help me lead a team effectively and navigate challenges confidently. As an Army Veteran, I bring discipline, strategic acumen and a mission-driven mindset to my role as CEO. I’m also able to inspire a culture of dedication and excellence that makes a positive difference for our government clients and their stakeholders.

Some Veterans find the transition from military to civilian life challenging, even difficult. What was the transition from a military career to a civilian one like for you?

It was challenging at first when I didn’t know where my career would take me. I decided I needed to start my own business so I could control my hours and do things the way I wanted to do them. The structured environment and clear mission that came with starting Artemis helped, along with the flexibility and willingness to learn that was required. I can see how the transition could be hard for Veterans who don’t have the support systems they need. In the military, we all played by the same rules; everybody understood their place. It’s different in the civilian world. You have to adapt to the different dynamics of the civilian sector.

How does Artemis support Veterans and service members?

In addition to our work for the Department of Veterans Affairs, our Project Artemis Program is focused on supporting Veterans, service members and their families through community outreach and partnerships with other organizations. We’re eager to support military families because we believe in giving back to those who served our country. We also were named a DAV (Disabled American Veterans) Patriot Employer. This recognition is for employers who demonstrate by their employment policies, community outreach and hiring practices that they are committed to ensuring all Veterans obtain suitable employment to care for themselves and their families.

If you had to pick a company to model Artemis after, which one would it be?

One organization that stands out is USAA (the United Services Automobile Association). They have a good model. They provide the most effective customer service I’ve experienced and I always feel respected when I talk to them. I’m always engaged quickly by a professional who’s informed and able to resolve my issues and basically improve my life. I know it takes great leaders and an investment in people to create the customer experience I receive from USAA, and I’m working hard to do the same with Artemis.

What is your vision for Artemis? Where do you see the company 5 or 10 years down the road?

My vision is to have Artemis become a leading provider of government consulting services, known for its integrity, innovation and impact. In the next five to 10 years, I see us expanding our services, growing our team and making a really significant difference in the government sector.