Probably the most vacant hall in the school, the Aerospace wing is home to one of the most advanced programs in the state.

Juan Barrera, an aspiring senior who has demonstrated an enthusiastic dedication to the program, has seen his effort pay off impressively.



As a boy, Juan lived his dream of being a pilot through flight simulators and computer flying games.

It wasn’t until the end of his freshman year that he decided to do something about his passion and join the Aerospace Academy here at Varela.

Soon after joining the academy as a sophomore, Juan entered WINGS, an aerospace squadron designed to teach potential young pilots everything they need to know.

Participating in WINGS has given Juan knowledge on flying principles, rocketry, navigation, and even a little astronomy.

Shortly after, Juan was offered the chance to engage in flying gliders.

“I’ve always had a passion for flying,” says Juan. “I definitely wanted to try it.”

He completed ten glider flights before moving to his next obstacle: his private pilot’s license.

From January to June of 2003, Juan prepared long hours in ground school classes where he learned the theory that would ready him for the FAA written exam.

In June 2003, he reached his goal, and with a passing grade of 85 percent, he was granted his private pilot’s license.

Wasting no time, within two weeks of his success, Juan was flying out of Tamiami Airport on Cessna 152s.

Now a senior, not only has Juan obtained his private pilot’s license, but he has also received the WINGS glider rating, and in 2003, he managed to place in the top ten aerospace student list.

However, no matter how many goals he meets, Juan says he could not have done it with the help of his aerospace teacher, Mr. Bachmeyer.

“He’s a great person,” he says of Mr. Bachmeyer. “If it wasn’t for him, I don’t know where I’d be.”

As for his future in piloting, Juan plans to attend Miami Dade College right out of high school to obtain his Certified Flying Instructor’s permit. He then plans to transfer to Embry Riddell in Daytona to finalize his studies as a pilot.