Two years ago, Steven Barrett graduated from the Royal Air Force College Cranwell as a Flying Officer. 

His dream since young was to fly fast-jets. At the age of 13, he joined 2117 (Kenfig Hill) Squadron ATC, the next few years saw Steven progress through the training syllabus to Staff Cadet and attain the rank of Instructor Cadet Warrant Officer.

He successfully qualified as a glider pilot instructor with No 634 Volunteer Gliding Squadron MOD St Athan and gained a pilot qualification at the Tayside Flying School in Scotland. Steven became the Lord Lieutenants Cadet for 2003-2004.

After graduating from RAF College Cranwell, he was posted to RAF Wyton and streamlined to RAF Linton on Ouse to commence his training for future fast-jet pilots. After completing his training with the Tucano T1 Steven was presented with his RAF Wings and promoted to the rank of Flight Lieutenant.

He is now waiting transfer to RAF Valley to continue the next stage of his fast-jet training with the Hawk TMk1.

Flt Lt Barry C Thomas, OC 2117 (Kenfig Hill) Squadron ATC said ‘ Steven is the ideal role model for our cadets and when he has time calls in to the squadron and is always eager to talk to the cadets about his time with the ATC and his experience with the Royal Air Force.

All of us at 2117 (Kenfig Hill) Squadron ATC wish Flight Lieutenant Steven Barrett the very best in his career as a pilot with the RAF.