James Smith
About James Smith
James Smith serves as a First Officer for Mesa Airlines, Inc., specializing in the CRJ-900/700 aircraft. He has a diverse background in education and aviation, having worked as a teacher and flight instructor, and holds multiple degrees in music education and aviation.
Work at Mesa Airlines
James Smith has been employed at Mesa Airlines, Inc. as a First Officer for the CRJ-900/700 aircraft since 2019. In this role, he is responsible for assisting the captain in the operation of the aircraft, ensuring safety and compliance with aviation regulations. His tenure at Mesa Airlines spans over five years, contributing to the airline's operational efficiency and safety standards.
Previous Experience in Education
Before transitioning to aviation, James Smith worked as a teacher at Birdville Independent School District from 2000 to 2018. Over 18 years, he taught in North Richland Hills, Texas, where he engaged with students and contributed to their educational development. His background in education complements his aviation career, showcasing his diverse skill set.
Flight Training and Certifications
James Smith pursued extensive flight training to achieve various pilot certifications. He studied at Fly with Robert LLC, earning a Private Pilot Single Engine Land and Instrument Rating from 2014 to 2016. He furthered his qualifications at American Pilot Academy, Inc., where he served as a Certified Flight Instructor from 2017 to 2018. Additionally, he obtained Commercial SEL, CFI, and CFII certifications from American Pilot Academy between 2016 and 2017.
Educational Background in Music
James Smith holds multiple degrees in Music Education. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Texas Christian University from 1994 to 1998. He continued his studies at the University of Texas at Arlington, obtaining a Master’s Degree in Music Education from 2008 to 2010. He also completed a Master’s Degree in Special Studies at The University of Kansas from 1999 to 2000.
Involvement with Fort Worth Flying Club
Since 2015, James Smith has served as an Officer and member of the Board of Directors at the Fort Worth Flying Club. His involvement spans nine years, during which he has contributed to the club's operations and initiatives within the Dallas/Fort Worth area, promoting aviation and flight training opportunities.