Jane’s childhood in her hometown of Easley was rich in the lessons of family values, community and service. Her parents the late H. Grady Ballard and Mary Ruth Ballard taught Jane and her seven brothers and sisters the importance of teamwork and helping others. The family community on Ballard Hill was also filled with aunts, uncles and cousins a plenty. Growing up in that close-knit community gave Jane daily insights into the give-and-take of strong family life.

Her father’s business, Ballard Concrete Company, experienced the ups and downs of a small business. Working with her father, Jane learned the rewards of hard work, honesty and strength of character. She also helped her father when he ran for public office at his own expense. Jane saw first-hand the meaning of giving back and the value of public service.

An honor student at Easley High School, Jane also played on the school’s basketball team. From there, she attended Clemson University, receiving a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1981. While at Clemson, she was the first female Commander of Air Force ROTC.

Following graduation, Jane joined the U.S. Air Force and became one of its first female pilots. For seven years, she flew a number of planes including T-38s, T-37s and KC-135 Air Refueling Tankers.

She left the Air Force as a Captain to become a commercial airline pilot. For the last 20 years, Jane has flown for FedEx, again flying a number of planes and becoming one of its few women Captains. She currently flies A300 cargo planes across the country and through out Europe.

Jane’s husband John Dyer shares her love of flying. John, a highly decorated USAF fighter pilot, flew corporate jets for Michelin North America after retiring from the military.

Jane and John have two sons: Bill, a senior at the College of Charleston and Tony, who just graduated from the Governor’s School for Science and Math in Hartsville. He will be attending Emory University in the fall. Jane also has a stepdaughter, Amy, who is a middle school teacher and a stepson, John, who is a pilot with Southwest Airlines. Three grandchildren bring constant joy to their lives.

As a young mother, Jane was a youth basketball and soccer coach. She was a leader in her Baptist Church’s youth programs and served as a Deacon. In addition, Jane volunteered at her children’s schools and donated time and energy to charity work over the years.

Jane Dyer understands the importance of family, faith and community. She has been a leader all her life. Now she wants to bring that leadership and her South Carolina values and experiences to Washington.

Jane knows she can make a difference in rebuilding our economy, bringing jobs to the 3rd District, improving the health care system, protecting our environment, providing quality public education, and ensuring the security of our nation.

Jane Dyer wants to be your Congresswoman.