SJNA Highlights Aviation Science Program at EAA AirVenture
DELAFIELD, WI (July 9, 2025) – St. John’s Northwestern Academies (SJNA) is proud to announce its participation in the 2025 EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, held July 21 through July 27 at Wittman Regional Airport. Throughout the week, SJNA will host an interactive booth (E13) featuring its standout Aviation Science Program and a live flight simulator experience led by SJNA alumnus Paul Gardetto (S’81), a seasoned professional pilot and longtime supporter of the Academies.
Gardetto, who attributes his aviation success to the foundation he built at SJNA, will be present during the event to engage with students and families. Attendees will have the rare opportunity to fly the simulator, explore what aviation education looks like at the high school level, and hear directly from Gardetto about the importance of early access to aviation science.
“SJNA sparked my love of aviation and helped me build the discipline and drive I needed to pursue it as a career,” said Gardetto. “It’s incredible to come back full circle and offer today’s students a tool that mirrors what professionals use in the field. Getting this experience early can change everything. Putting tools into the hands of kids like this, rather than video games, is invaluable; it teaches focus and discipline.”
What sets SJNA apart is its comprehensive Aviation Science Program, one of the few high school aviation science programs of its kind in the region. The program includes a 15-week Private Pilot Ground School course, offered in partnership with Wisconsin Aviation, which prepares students to take the FAA knowledge exam and begin flight training toward their private pilot’s license. The curriculum is designed to introduce students not just to flying, but to the full spectrum of aviation careers, including airport management, aeronautical engineering, aerospace medicine, and more.
Students gain real-world experience through flight simulators, crosswind landing trainers, and FAA-certified tools. The program also emphasizes science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), with a focus on long-term career readiness.
“Aviation is one of the most in-demand industries in the world, and the need for well-prepared, disciplined leaders in the field has never been greater,” said Eric Sanchez, SJNA Vice President of Programs and Advancement. “Our program is structured, outcomes-driven, and designed to create a clear path from classroom to cockpit. Participating in EAA allows us to share that vision with families who want more than the average high school experience.”
Families attending EAA are encouraged to stop by the SJNA booth, E13, to experience the simulator, connect with staff, alumni, and faculty, and discover what makes this program a powerful part of the SJNA education.
To learn more about the Aviation Science Program at St. John’s Northwestern Academies, visit sjnacademies.org/aviation.
About St. John’s Northwestern Academies
Located in Delafield, Wisconsin, St. John’s Northwestern Academies is a premier independent boarding and day school for students in grades 7 through 12 and postgraduate. With a focus on leadership, character development, and future-focused academics, SJNA offers specialized programs that prepare students for success in college, careers, and life.