Wes, you say this is the first plane you will be building. Does this mean it will be the first time you've flown, or that you have flown, but they were RTR planes? If this is the first time you've flown, this may be disappointing, but planes that resemble jets, world war II fighters, etc do not make good beginner planes. They tend to be challenging to fly. Most, if not all, who try to learn with such planes end up crashing, repairing, and eventually giving up. The ones who do succeed usually do so because after crashing their first plane a number of times, they go buy a slow, boring, but functional trainer type of plane.

So, my suggestion is that you put the jet on hold for a while and get something that would work as a trainer. I only fly glow planes, so I'm not the best person to recommend an electric trainer. Perhaps someone else will give you some ideas. While you are waiting, take a look at some of the electric forums, and do some searches. I know I've read plenty of recommendations.

I also suggest that you find someone in your area who can teach you to fly. Many people try to learn by themselves, and some actually make it. However, many also give up after some number of cycles of fly, crash, repair or replace, fly, etc. It's possible to learn by yourself, but you will spend less money and time if you have help.

I also suggest that you consider joining the AMA. They are at www.modelaircraft.org. They have a club locator, a good way to find a field, hook up with others who fly, and to find an instructor.