Sherm spent his life in aviation, learning to fly at age of 15 in 1918. He studied the internal combustion engine at Penn State University, worked for Henry Berliner's factory (now Rockwell International). Taught at Beckley College, Harrisburg, PA. Returned to State College in 1929 to build an air depot at Boealsburg. There he taught over 1000 students to fly.

He did barnstorming and was a consistent winner in aerobatics. He piloted Dr Milton Eisenhower, Sam Jaffee, and others in charter flights; gave air tours; flew cargo; did aerial photography; mapped out airmail routes. He was instrumental in getting daily flights from All American Airways (later Allegheny Airlines and then USAir) to State College. He became an examiner for commercial pilot licensing. Many of his students were women, who stayed with the profession.

Sherm received many honors for his achievements. The University Park Airport Open House October 17, 1987 was dedicated as Sherm Lutz Day.

Sherm passed away February 8, 1998.