I hold a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Colorado State University and a BS in Environmental Engineering from Arizona State University’s Barrett Honors College. I have been highly successful within the traditional education system. However, the stress and pressure of that system has ultimately taken a toll on my health, leading to significant issues that were eventually attributed to chronically elevated cortisol levels.
As I reflect on my own academic journey, I often think that if I were to raise children, I would choose to homeschool them. With the knowledge and experience I have gained, I would want them to learn in a more purposeful and engaging way, not through rote memorization and repetition, but through deep understanding, curiosity, and challenge. I believe students can learn advanced topics and experience far less stress at the same time.
My approach introduces students to challenging concepts early, with the clear understanding that being confused is good for your brain. There is no grading, no shame, and no fear of being wrong. Mastery is important, but constant correctness leads to boredom. When students become comfortable facing problems that feel larger than themselves, they develop resilience, confidence, and intellectual capacity.
I will meet your student at the appropriate academic level for their goals and interests. But beyond specific math or science content, I focus on teaching students how to approach complex problems, how to learn independently, and how to trust their reasoning when faced with difficulty.
Above all, I believe advanced learning should not come at the expense of a child’s well-being. Intellectual growth does not need to be accompanied by chronic stress. Students should enjoy learning and feel excited to explore more.
If this approach resonates with you and your student, I would love to connect. You can read more about my academic qualifications below. I look forward to meeting you!
Hi, I’m Smith Pittman
Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering
Colorado State University, GPA: 3.98
May 2022 - Aug 2026
Focus: Bioprocess Engineering, Techno-economic Assessment, Mathematical Modeling
Business Management Certificate
My Resume
B.S.E in Environmental Engineering
Arizona State University, GPA: 3.84
May 2018 - May 2022
Outstanding Graduate in Environmental Engineering
Barrett Honors College
Grand Challenge Scholars Program Certificate
Head Math Coach
Arizona State University - Universal Learners Courses
May 2018 - May 2022
For >1,000 students, I designed lectures, problem-solving videos, and assessments. Led live tutoring sessions and helped students prepare for college-level exams for:
College Algebra
Precalculus
Calculus I (Engineering & Business
The universal learners courses are how your student will receive college credit for their work.
National Laboratory of the Rockies - Artificial Intelligence for Lignocellulosic Ethanol
National Renewable Energy Laboratory Graduate Intern
July 2025 - July 2026
Developed mathematical models for biorefineries for integration into machine learning algorithms
Teaching Assistant - Numerical Methods
Arizona State University, 2020
Guided students through applied mathematics, coding (MATLAB), and advanced engineering problem-solving.
Leadership & Mentorship
President, Mechanical Engineering Graduate Association – CSU
Mentored 5 undergraduate summer interns through personal research projects
Volunteer educator in STEM outreach events for middle and high school students.