08/20/2026
For Danny Santiago, Broward College was more than a place to earn a degree. It was the foundation for a career in aviation that would take him from the cockpit and the hangar to the director level, where he now serves as Director of MRO Sales and contributes to the future of aviation through industry leadership and workforce development.
Danny attended Broward College from 2006 to 2008, pursuing Aviation Maintenance and Management while simultaneously taking part in both the Pilot and Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) programs. He graduated in 2008 with an associate degree, having immersed himself in virtually every aspect of the College’s aviation offerings.
His decision to attend Broward College was both practical and purposeful. At the time, the College offered the programs he needed in a location close to home, with qualified professionals who could provide the hands-on knowledge and technical expertise necessary to succeed in aviation.
“I practically lived there,” Danny recalls.
It was not unusual for him to spend 12 to 14 hours a day at the College, balancing the pilot program, A&P training and his associate degree. That demanding schedule was made possible by a staff that Danny describes as exceptionally accommodating, supportive and motivating. Over time, the people who taught and encouraged him became much more than educators.
“They became family,” he says.
Among the many people who left a lasting impression on Danny were Jorge Guerra, Tim Griffin, Cookie, Evelyn Ruiz, Cesar, Bob Lumley, Emilio, Donnie and Jane. Each played a role in inspiring him and helping him stay focused on his goals.
The College’s aviation resources were equally important to his development. Danny remembers the strength of the pilot program and the quality of its aircraft, while the A&P program provided the tools and technical environment needed to train to relevant industry standards. Together, those experiences gave him a uniquely well-rounded perspective on aviation.
After graduating from Broward College, Danny continued his education at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where his Broward College credits were accepted. Thanks to the strong academic foundation he had built, he completed his bachelor’s degree in just a year and a half.
But Danny’s education at Broward College prepared him for much more than completing another degree. It equipped him to understand aviation from multiple perspectives—as a pilot, technician and manager—and ultimately helped prepare him for leadership.
Today, Danny serves as Director of MRO Sales and has become an active contributor to the broader aviation industry. His professional experience has led to service on multiple boards of directors across the country, as well as involvement in workforce development initiatives designed to help prepare the next generation of aviation professionals. He also serves on the boards of Atlantic Technical College and Universal Technical Institute (UTI), supporting the advancement of aviation education and workforce programs.
Looking back, Danny sees a direct connection between the student who spent long days at Broward College and the aviation leader he is today.
“Broward College prepared me as a pilot, tech, manager, and now director,” he reflects.
Yet perhaps the most valuable thing he gained at Broward College cannot be measured by a transcript or certificate: relationships.
For Danny, the people he met at the College became connections for life. The mentorship, encouragement and friendships he experienced continue to influence his career and his commitment to giving back to the aviation community.
If there is one thing Danny hopes prospective students and others in the aviation industry understand about Broward College, it is that the opportunities extend far beyond the classroom.
“This program is amazing and can allow you to grow in so many facets, particularly in aviation,” he says. “The people I met here were connections for LIFE.”
Danny remains deeply grateful to the institution and the people who helped shape his path. His story is a testament to what can happen when strong educational programs, dedicated instructors and a determined student come together.
“I would NOT be where I am in my career without them.”
From spending 12-hour days learning to fly and maintain aircraft to helping shape the future of aviation workforce development, Danny Santiago’s journey demonstrates the lasting impact of a Broward College education—and the many places an aviation career can take you.