BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — A 2012 Independence High School graduate and Bakersfield native is participating in a rigorous training process that transforms officers into U.S. naval aviators, according to the Navy Office of Community Outreach.

Lt. j.g. Tyler Valencia is a student pilot with the “Golden Eagles” of Training Squadron (VT) 22, based in Naval Air Station Kingsville, Texas. The squadron flies T-45C Goshawk aircraft.

A Navy student pilot is responsible for studying and learning how to fly and being prepared for each flight event.

“The best part of learning to fly is the point where you feel comfortable and confident in the aircraft where you can take it out solo and execute your event,” Valencia said.

Valencia credits success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned growing up in Bakersfield.