- James Gayheart
cfi

"Mr. Smith was my primary instructor through my flight instructor phase of training with ATP. His ability to properly articulate the necessary intricacies involved with more advanced training was beyond my expectations. His ability to further enhance the flying experience through his general demeanor and presence in the cockpit helped to make an already stressful situation less frustrating and put me at ease throughout the entire process. Jared allowed me to make mistakes. However, there was never a safety related issue as he always kept safety at the forefront of his instruction and methods while teaching and flying. Every day he arrived on time and with a great attitude. He helped streamline the process by being flexible with scheduling and available throughout the training day. Watching Jared juggle multiple students and multiple flights every single day further proved his abilities to provide structured training through efficient scheduling and utilizing all available resources. He shined as an instructor in the classroom setting as well. His ability to teach more difficult concepts and ensure the success of his students helped to improve the overall understanding of what is ultimately required of a flight instructor. I later learned toward the end of training that this was Mr. Smith’s first class of flight instructor candidates and that I was his first student. It did not feel like that and was not even remotely evident in the professional and safe manner in which he conducted himself. It should not be under stated that someone who is able to jump right into leadership positions and act like he’s been there before in an accelerated flight program make Jared a go to instructor for flight training. I would gladly share a cockpit with Jared any day and look forward to any opportunity to fly with him in the future without hesitation.

- Tedd Asbille
commercial, cfi

"I had an excellent experience training with Jared. From the very start, he took the time on the ground to clearly explain what we were going to do in a way that was simple, logical, and easy to understand. Nothing felt rushed or confusing.

In the air, he demonstrated the maneuver first, then coached me through executing it myself with calm, clear direction. Because of his instruction, everything clicked. The maneuver went extremely well, and it’s now one of the strongest maneuvers I fly, which I directly credit to the way he taught it.

Jared has a great ability to break things down, set you up for success, and build confidence without pressure. I would absolutely recommend working with him, and I genuinely hope I get the opportunity to fly with him more in the future."

- Shya Dadashzadeh  
cfi

"Jared provided exceptional instruction during one of the most challenging phases of my training, CFI. He helped me strictly maintain CFI standards but simultaneously build confidence and develop an enjoyment for the maneuvers/tasks; he did a great job at addressing errors positively. I felt prepared and well trained going into my check ride, which I passed first try."

- david diaz
commerical single engine

"Jared Smith was my single engine commercial instructor and had a lot of insight and knowledge that he was able to pass down. Jared is the type of instructor who cares for his students and it shows with how much time he puts in.

We were practicing landings, and I had trouble landing a short approach and he had me take a break from it, and when we came back to it, I was able to land it. Jared was able to recognize my frustration and with his experience, knew that it was best for me to get my mind off of it and to try again at a different time. Jared Smith is a great instructor!"

- taylor Laugero
cfi

"I can’t say enough great things about my flight instructor, Jared. I had the incredible honor of learning from Jared while I was attending CFI Academy. He is incredibly committed, helpful, and one of the hardest-working instructors I’ve had the pleasure of learning from. Jared is excellent at what he does and has a true gift for teaching.

He’s able to break down complex concepts and explain them on a much deeper level, which makes everything click and builds confidence as a pilot. His dedication, knowledge, and genuine care for his students truly set him apart. I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to have trained with him and would highly recommend him to anyone!"

- tyler jones
commercial single engine

"Jared Smith from the day I met him wanted the best for everyone around him, from the students to the instructors. He would do whatever he could so that the people around him could succeed. He was the manager of the flight school I attended, and made the environment enjoyable, productive, and professional. Making the learning environment much easier to digest, creating a group of people at that flight school that felt like a family tackling the same hurdle of getting their certificates.

Jared was constantly striving to bring the best out of people, speaking from experience, he was my Commercial instructor. I started commercial with 2 different instructors that weren’t teaching me much and were just flying my hours. I came to Jared and asked for help, he took me under his wing and taught me the maneuvers and ground knowledge, like no one else would, setting me up with knowledge and good habits to become a CFI after endorsing me for my CPL. I would 100% recommend Jared, he doesn’t sugarcoat, but he tells it like it is because he cares for you, and wants the best for you."