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Our E.R.A. Program builds innovation, critical thinking, and teamwork—equipping students with the skills needed for today’s workforce and tomorrow’s opportunities in a rapidly evolving tech world.

Welcome to a new E.R.A.

St. John's Northwestern leads the charge when it comes to offering a state-of-the-art STEM learning experience. The Engineering Robotics & Aviation (ERA) program stands alone, and our 12-1 student-to-teacher ratio ensures an intimate learning experience. SJN gives students the opportunity to earn their private pilot's license, and engage in our strong robotics and cyber-security programs, and a first-of-its-kind drone program.

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Leaders of Tomorrow's Workforce

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STEM Lab

In the 2024-25 academic year, upgrades have continued on the Engineering Robotics & Aviation Lab, which features custom-designed workstations that are the envy of any STEM lab!

E.R.A. Lab at SJN: Where STEM Innovation Takes Flight

At St. John’s Northwestern, our Engineering, Robotics & Aviation (E.R.A.) Lab stands at the heart of hands-on innovation and discovery. With continual upgrades—including custom-designed workstations, new tools, and cutting-edge technology—our lab is a true hub for 21st-century STEM learning and a source of inspiration for students who are ready to design, build, and lead.

During the 2024–25 academic year, we’ve expanded the E.R.A. Lab to support our mission of keeping Future Aspirations in Mind. From competitive robotics to real-world engineering challenges, the lab serves as a launchpad for creativity, problem-solving, and leadership. Students are empowered to participate in regional and state robotics competitions, work on drone and aviation projects, and even develop original solutions in our fully equipped Maker Space Lab—all while following an advanced engineering-focused curriculum.

Our program doesn’t just teach theory—it builds capability. With instruction that blends mechanical engineering, computer science, and design thinking, SJN students leave the lab with the knowledge and confidence to thrive in top STEM programs and careers.

Whether prototyping in the Maker Space, perfecting a drone for aerial missions, or preparing for a VEX Robotics competition, students in the E.R.A. Lab gain hands-on experience that transforms curiosity into career readiness.

Leaders in STEM
3D printer

3-D Printing

Our 3-D printing lab empowers students to bring their ideas to life. With high-resolution printers and industry-standard design software, students gain hands-on experience in a variety of fields.

3D Printing at SJN: Innovation You Can Hold in Your Hands

At St. John’s Northwestern, innovation isn’t just encouraged—it’s engineered. Our fully equipped 3D printing lab gives students the tools and freedom to design, prototype, and create in ways that prepare them for the demands of a modern, tech-driven world.

Using high-resolution printers and industry-standard design software, students gain hands-on experience across disciplines such as engineering, product design, architecture, robotics, and even medical technology. Whether they're building mechanical parts for a robotics competition or designing custom prototypes for class projects, SJN students learn to turn imagination into invention.

The lab is an integral part of our Engineering, Robotics & Aviation (E.R.A.) Program, allowing students to apply what they’ve learned in math, science, and design thinking to real-world challenges. Along the way, they develop creativity, problem-solving, collaboration, and technical skills that are highly transferable to future careers.

With Future Aspirations in Mind, our 3D printing program helps students build confidence in their ideas and the skills to bring them to life.

Dare to Create
Man standing on an airport tarmac beside a small propeller airplane, smiling and posing under a clear blue sky.

Aviation & Aerospace

Students at SJN are offered the chance to earn their private pilot license during their schooling and also make use of our brand new state-of-the-art flight simulator!

Take Flight
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Cyber Security

Based on the cutting-edge leadership from Nick Chaillan, SJN's cybersecurity program sets our students up with an incredible foundation in this ever-growing sector. Students gain real-world knowledge in protecting systems and networks.

Cybersecurity at SJN: Building Digital Defenders for the Future

In an age where technology drives every industry, cybersecurity has become one of the fastest-growing and most critical career fields. At St. John’s Northwestern, our Cybersecurity Program is designed to give students a strong foundation in digital security, ethical hacking, data protection, and cyber leadership—preparing them for the challenges of tomorrow’s tech-driven world.

Inspired by the pioneering leadership of Nick Chaillan, a nationally recognized voice in cybersecurity strategy, our program takes a modern, mission-driven approach to digital defense. Students gain real-world knowledge in protecting systems and networks, understanding cyber threats, and responding to vulnerabilities—skills that are highly sought after across government, military, and private sectors.

Through hands-on labs, certifications, and guided instruction, students are introduced to cybersecurity fundamentals while also developing critical thinking, digital responsibility, and leadership under pressure. Whether students pursue careers in cybersecurity, national security, engineering, or IT, SJN’s program helps them build a Foundation for Life in this evolving and essential field.

Protecting the Future
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Drones

SJN explores the growing field of drones and how they are utilized, with an emphasis on recreational and commercial opportunities, rules and regulations, and drone piloting and licensing. It is taught by a FAA-licensed instructor.

Drone Technology at SJN: Elevating Learning, Launching Careers

At St. John’s Northwestern, we explore the growing field of drones and how they are utilized, with an emphasis on recreational and commercial opportunities, rules and regulations, and drone piloting and licensing. It is taught by a FAA-licensed instructor. Students will also learn the history of drones, various drone models and types, drone maintenance, and how to troubleshoot various flight problems and situations.

Led by our dedicated Drone Program Director, Melissa Steffens, who recently passed the FAA Part 107 exam, our students now have the opportunity to earn their FAA-certified commercial drone pilot license—an exceptional advantage for high school students preparing for competitive college programs or early career opportunities.

Students in the program learn the fundamentals of safe flight, airspace regulations, mission planning, and drone maintenance, as well as aerial photography and videography. The course blends STEM education with real-world application, helping students build confidence, accountability, and career-ready skills.

Whether flying missions on our private campus or capturing footage for real SJN events, students gain the experience and credentials to soar beyond the classroom.

Explore Drones
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E-Sports

Did you know that e-sports is now considered a Division I sport at most universities? Here at SJN, we're proud offer our students the opportunity to be part of the Wisconsin High School E-sports Association to compete in this growing field.

Varsity Valorant Team Crowned Division 3 State Champions

(May 19, 2025) St. John’s Northwestern is proud to announce that its Varsity Valorant esports team has been crowned the Division 3 State Champions following an undefeated season and a standout performance at the Wisconsin High School Esports Association (WIHSEA) State Championship, hosted at Lakeland University on Saturday, May 17.

After advancing through intense semifinal rounds and a competitive championship match, the SJN team emerged victorious, securing their place at the top of the state leaderboard.

This state title marks a major milestone for SJN’s growing esports program, which is designed to give students a competitive edge in a rapidly expanding field. In addition to the excitement of a state title, this win provides team members with increased visibility among colleges and universities that offer collegiate esports programs and full-ride scholarships.

The success of the Varsity Valorant team is just one of many ways SJN prepares students for success in and beyond the classroom. Through innovative extracurriculars, specialized academic tracks, and a commitment to keeping students’ Future Aspirations in Mind, SJN continues to empower its students to lead with purpose.

Game On

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E.R.A. In Action

Explore videos from around the cutting-edge Engineering, Robotics, & Aviation Program.

Making it Happen

Two students in uniform smile while examining and adjusting a small drone together in a classroom setting.

St. John’s Northwestern Expands Drone Program Through Partnership with Ruko Toy

SJN is proud to announce a new partnership with Ruko Toy, marked by the generous donation of 30 drones to expand the Academy’s Drone Program.

SJNA Varsity Valorant Team Crowned Division 3 State Champions

The Varsity Valorant esports team has been crowned the Division 3 State Champions!

E.R.A. Students Showcase Innovation at VEX Robotics Competition

St. John’s Northwestern recently hosted an exciting VEX Robotics competition, where students put their engineering and problem-solving skills to the test.
Instructor assists a student in a makerspace classroom as they assemble a robotics project with tools and parts.

Chicago Parent: E.R.A. Program Opening Doors

KIM KOVELLE - A group of students huddles around their project: a motor, popsicle sticks, and rubber bands.
Welcome graphic introducing John Lui, SJNA E.R.A. Program Director, with portrait and St. John’s Northwestern branding.

SJNA Announces John Lui as E.R.A Program Director

On July 17, 2024, SJNA welcomed John Lui as the new head of the Engineering, Robotics, & Aviation Program.
Man standing on an airport tarmac beside a small propeller airplane, smiling and posing under a clear blue sky.

Taking Flight: Braunschweig Completes First Solo Flight

On March 2, St. John's Northwestern Academies student William Braunschweig completed his first solo flight from Watertown Municipal Airport.

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