Jason Smith - Center for People

Meet Jason

Warehouse Operations and Safety Specialist

Jason is a fun-loving and hard-working part of the Center for People team.

He initially came to Center for People through our educational programs, and he has since become an integral part of our operations. Jason is an insightful and effective problem-solver. He draws on lessons of resilience and hard work learned from his time spent on the farm, where he developed a deep respect for the land. He brings a balanced and thoughtful approach to every task and challenge he is faced with.

What’s a fun or interesting fact about you that most people wouldn’t guess?

“I was born in Atlanta, Georgia, but my journey took a unique path when I was adopted. From there, I moved to Wisconsin, then to Omaha, Nebraska, followed by Waco, Nebraska, and Hastings. Eventually, I found my way to Lincoln, where I settled down. Throughout my life, I’ve had the opportunity to grow up in many different places, each of them leaving a mark on who I am today.

During my college years, I played football while pursuing a degree in business, with a focus on marketing. It was a time of personal growth, both on the field and in the classroom.

One thing that might surprise you is that I spent five years as a farm kid. I absolutely loved the outdoor, hardworking farm life—it taught me valuable lessons about resilience, hard work, and connection to the land. In fact, I’ve even ridden a bull, which was both thrilling and challenging! The experiences I’ve had in different environments have shaped me into a person who appreciates both the hustle of city life and the serenity of the countryside.”

What’s a book, movie, or song that inspires you and why?

“Over time, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for two books that have had a significant impact on my perspective: The 48 Laws of Power and The Four Agreements. Both of these works have shaped the way I approach life, offering powerful insights on personal growth, relationships, and navigating the complexities of the world around us.

As for music, my go-to jam is Shaboozey’s A Bar Song—it never fails to get me in the right mindset. The energy and vibe of that track always resonates with me, making it a perfect anthem for whenever I need a boost.”

If you could instantly master any skill, what would it be and how would you use it?

“If I had to master a skill it would be hauling cattle nationwide!”

When faced with hard times, who has helped you get from hopeless to hopeful? What was the best advice you received or lessons you learned?

“For me, it was my high school basketball and football coach who made a lasting impact. As a troubled teen, I struggled to find my way, but they took the time to truly invest in me. They didn’t just care about my performance on the field or court—they encouraged me to be better in life overall. Their constant support and belief in me made a huge difference, teaching me that I was capable of more than I thought.

The best advice I’ve ever received came from them: Don’t stay stuck on what goes wrong. There’s no use in dwelling on something you can’t change in the moment. Worrying about it only drains your energy. Instead, focus on what you can control and move forward.”