Our Why
The idea of Beyond The HUD has been years if not decades in the making. What started out as a title idea for a book about the C-17 (still unwritten to this day) has manifested into a business venture and professional vector slightly off-airway.
In aviation, we often fixate on what is right in front of us. Avoiding storms in our flight path, responding to traffic advisories, flying ATC vectors to final and for a large audience of aviators, and fixating on the data and information presented in the HUD (Heads Up Display) allows us to taxi into park at the end of the sortie. This approach allows for the safe execution of our mission and is a fulfilling and satisfying endeavor.
That said, there is something to be said for fixing your gaze THROUGH the HUD or even turning it off and looking past the data at what is on the far-off horizon. In life, we can be consumed with the data and information right before us.
Beyond The HUD is a company intent on looking through the near term with a focused beam of perspective on what is coming beyond visual range with a keen appreciation of the hazards and pitfalls swirling in the contrails.
Pilot in Command
Jared Wood
Founder
My name is Jared Wood, a seasoned military aviator with a deep-rooted passion for flight and a wealth of experience in military aviation. With over 25 years of service in the Air Force, I've had the privilege of serving in various leadership capacities, including as a Squadron Chief Pilot, across both active duty and the Air Force Reserve Command. I currently hold the rank of Lt Col and am based out of McChord Field, Washington.
Throughout my career, I've logged over 300 combat sorties and have been involved in flight operations spanning every major conflict since 2001. My journey hasn't been confined to military airspace alone; on the civilian side, I proudly share my expertise as an instructor for C-17 pilots at Flight Safety Defense.
What drives me to create this platform is a desire to pay it forward—to empower and guide the next generation of Air Force pilots toward success. My time as a squadron Chief Pilot was profoundly fulfilling, as I relished the opportunity to mentor and shape the aspirations of aspiring aviators. Being responsible for hiring each new pilot allowed me to gain a perspective on this process few can claim. This experience is what sets Beyond The HUD apart from the formation.
Beyond the cockpit, I find immense joy in the simple pleasures of life. Family holds a central place in my heart, and I cherish every moment spent with loved ones. When I'm not flying low levels in the Cascades or sharing insights with future pilots, you can find me exploring the great outdoors, whether it's hiking along scenic trails, tackling rugged mountain bike routes, or ripping freshies on the ski slopes.
I look forward to working with you and sharing my passion for aviation.
Additional Crew Members
Beyond The HUD utilizes a seasoned network of aviation professionals to deliver you a relevant, experienced and professional career vector. We have current and former Active Duty, Guard and Reserve pilots from the Air Force, Marines and Navy.
Our staff is comprised of Air Force Academy, OTS and ROTC graduates to ensure your vector is on course and glidepath. On the civilian side, every Major and Legacy carrier is represented as well as aviation professionals from Boeing, Flight Safety and other stakeholders in the aviation industry.
We recognize the importance of providing current, relevant and knowledgeable subject matter experts to help you on your journey.
