Pilot gas station was founded by James (Jim) Haslam II in 1958. Jim began his career as a salesman at Standard Oil Company of Ohio, and after many successful years there, he decided to venture out on his own. He opened the first Pilot service station near Gate City, Virginia with an initial investment of $6,000 and two employees. In 1965, the company's headquarters moved to Knoxville Tennessee which is still its home today. Over the next several decades, Pilot has grown into one of the largest privately held companies in America with more than 750 locations across 40 states and Canada. The company also now operates travel centers across North America under its flagship brand Pilot Flying J. Today Pilot continues to be led by Jim’s son Jimmy Haslam who serves as Chairman & CEO while remaining committed to delivering quality products and services that make life easier for customers on their travels!