Santiago was a graduate of the undergraduate Aerospace Engineering program at the University of Michigan. He went on to pursue his master’s degree in aerospace systems design at the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he also worked as a graduate student research assistant at the Aerospace Systems Design Laboratory. During his time in the IDEAS Lab, he researched airline operations and how hybrid-electric aircraft will fit into regional carriers’ operations.

Santiago’s passion lies in the field of sustainable aviation, whether it be electric or hydrogen powered aircraft. He particularly is interested in the unconventional design space sustainable solutions open up. Beyond the world of aviation, Santiago’s other interests include his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers and Michigan Wolverines football, ultimate frisbee, Lego, and biking.