Contributions & Stories of LMAG Members
A LEADER BUILDS OTHER LEADERS
The quote “A Leader Builds Other Leaders” was inspired by Dr. John Santiago’s lifetime study of John Wooden’s Pyramid of Success since graduating from UCLA. He frequently reflected on his lessons learned during his engineering career as a technical engineering leader as an Air Force officer, a university educator and a bucket-list entrepreneur while teaching.
The intent of the web section is to provide inspiration and lessons learned to Young Professional (YP) engineers and IEEE student members based on the engineering careers from the Life Member Affinity Group (LMAG) members shown on the tabs below. We, LMAG members, are not here to receive awards or other forms of recognition. We are here to serve others to guide future technical leaders.
But first, let’s explain the quote.
The quote by Dr. John Santiago, “A leader builds other leaders,” emphasizes the essence of leadership as a generative and empowering process.
Honoring Legacy: Dr. John Santiago Reflects on Leadership, Mentorship, and the Lasting Impact of IEEE’s John Meredith
Dr Santiago started with John Meredith found in the first tab.
The “Stories of LMAG Members” section on the IEEE Pikes Peak Section website serves as a repository of narratives from Life Member Affinity Group (LMAG) members, offering insights into their extensive engineering careers. These stories aim to inspire current and future engineers by sharing experiences and lessons learned.
In summary, IEEE Pikes Peak Section’s “Stories of LMAG Members” section reflect the historical dedication that started off primarily his reflection of John Meredith’s legacy with IEEE to celebrating the achievements of his peers and fostering a culture of learning and inspiration within the engineering community. Dr Santiago is attempting to extend John Meredith’s legacy as a military colleague and friend as well as others like Donald Kraft and John Reinert.
One notable contribution is the tribute to John Meredith, a distinguished IEEE member with over 50 years of service, including leadership roles within the Pikes Peak Section. The section features two videos: a brief message from Meredith during IEEE’s 125th anniversary in 2008, and a flag-folding ceremony narrated by Dr. John Santiago, honoring Meredith’s legacy.
Dr. Santiago’s involvement is further highlighted in the context of his planned collaboration with Meredith. In September 2018, Santiago was set to chair the IEEE Pikes Peak Section, with Meredith as vice-chair starting in 2019. Their strategic plan included Santiago focusing on community outreach to promote STEM/STEAM education, while Meredith would organize the technical sessions. Tragically, Meredith passed away on September 26, 2018, just before a scheduled technical session on cybersecurity that he had arranged. In his honor, Santiago hosted the event, commencing with a moment of silence and a video tribute.
Based on his relationship with John Merideth, Dr. Santiago’s contributions to the “Stories of LMAG Members” section exemplify John Meredith’s commitment to honoring fellow engineers and sharing valuable experiences. Dr Santiago’s interactions with John Merieth provide personal insights into the collaborative efforts within the IEEE community, underscoring the importance of mentorship, leadership, and service. By documenting these stories, Dr. Santiago not only preserves the legacies of esteemed members like John Meredith but also offers guidance and inspiration to current and aspiring engineers.
Honoring John Meredith: Lessons in Self-Leadership, Team Leadership, and Organizational Leadership
John Meredith’s legacy is a beacon of inspiration for engineers and leaders alike. With over 50 years of service to IEEE, Meredith exemplified the principles of self-leadership, team leadership, and organizational leadership. His journey, celebrated on the IEEE Pikes Peak Section’s Stories of LMAG Members webpage, offers valuable lessons on building a strong foundation of skills, empowering others, and advancing a shared vision.
Self-Leadership: Building Excellence from Within
At the heart of John Meredith’s success was his ability to lead himself with discipline, curiosity, and a commitment to lifelong learning. His rise to positions such as IEEE-USA President in 2007 was the result of years of personal growth and a steadfast focus on excellence.
Key Lessons in Self-Leadership:
- Embrace Lifelong Learning: Meredith consistently sought to expand his knowledge and skills, staying at the forefront of engineering and leadership trends.
- Set Clear Goals: His ability to define and pursue meaningful objectives allowed him to navigate complex challenges with confidence.
- Cultivate Resilience: Meredith’s dedication to his craft and mission serves as a reminder that perseverance is a cornerstone of leadership.
By focusing on self-leadership, Meredith not only advanced his own career but also set a standard for others to follow.
Team Leadership: Empowering Others to Succeed
Meredith’s influence extended beyond his personal achievements to the countless individuals and teams he inspired and mentored. His ability to foster collaboration and guide others toward shared success is a hallmark of effective team leadership.
Examples of Team Leadership:
- Mentorship: Meredith was deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of engineers, providing guidance and support that helped shape their careers.
- Collaboration: In September 2018, Meredith worked with Dr. John Santiago to organize an IEEE Pikes Peak Section event at Colorado Technical University, demonstrating his ability to bring people together for a common purpose.
- Inclusivity: His leadership style prioritized creating opportunities for diverse voices to contribute, ensuring that every team member felt valued.
Key Takeaways:
- Empower Others: Meredith believed in equipping team members with the tools and autonomy to excel.
- Lead by Example: His actions consistently reflected his values, inspiring trust and respect among his peers.
- Celebrate Achievements: By recognizing the contributions of others, Meredith fostered a culture of collaboration and mutual success.
Organizational Leadership: Building a Legacy
John Meredith’s impact on IEEE and the engineering community was not limited to individual teams. His tenure as IEEE-USA President and his longstanding service within the organization reflect his ability to lead on a broader, organizational level, shaping the future of IEEE for generations to come.
Key Contributions to Organizational Leadership:
- Strategic Vision: Meredith played a pivotal role in advancing IEEE’s mission, ensuring that its initiatives aligned with the evolving needs of the engineering profession.
- Event Leadership: His collaboration on a cybersecurity session and live video conference with IEEE President Jim Jefferies in 2018 exemplifies his ability to orchestrate impactful events.
- Inspiring Legacy: Even after his passing on September 26, 2018, Meredith’s influence continued to guide the IEEE Pikes Peak Section. A moment of silence and tribute video at the aforementioned event underscored the profound respect and admiration he earned from his peers.
Lessons in Organizational Leadership:
- Define the Mission: Meredith ensured that every initiative he led contributed to the overarching goals of IEEE and the engineering community.
- Build Sustainable Systems: His focus on mentoring and collaboration created a ripple effect of leadership within the organization.
- Leave a Legacy: Meredith’s dedication serves as a reminder that great leaders think beyond the present, shaping the future for others.
The Enduring Lessons of John Meredith
John Meredith’s life and career embody the principles of self-leadership, team leadership, and organizational leadership. His ability to develop his own skills, inspire and empower others, and advance the mission of IEEE offers timeless lessons for aspiring engineers and leaders.
- Self-Leadership: Focus on continuous improvement and resilience.
- Team Leadership: Foster collaboration, mentorship, and inclusivity.
- Organizational Leadership: Build a vision that outlasts your tenure, creating a legacy that inspires others.
As we reflect on Meredith’s story, let us strive to emulate his example—leading ourselves, empowering our teams, and building organizations that make a lasting impact. His legacy reminds us that leadership is not just about what we achieve but how we inspire others to achieve greatness.
Below are three videos: (1) 37-second video on John Meredith Wishing IEEE A Happy 125th Anniversary in October 2008, and (2) Flag Folding Ceremony and Presentation. The flag-folding ceremony was narrated by Dr. John Santiago as a tribute to his mentor, military colleague and friend. The video was sent back to his home at Fayetteville, Arkansas where the rest of his family and friends resided. (3) Since John Merideth and Dr. John Santiago are both military veterans, as well as being a student of history, the video expresses how we feel about living in America.
The IEEE-USA John Meredith Professional Service Award | IEEE-USA (ieeeusa.org)
John Meredith Memorial Giving: Honoring a Lifetime of Service – IEEE-USA InSight (ieeeusa.org)
IEEE Pikes Peak Section Meeting & Tribute to Navy Veteran & 2007 IEEE*USA President John Meredith
A Great Leader Who Builds & Motivates Other Leaders
During September 2018, Professor Santiago will Chair for the IEEE Pikes Peak Section with John Meredith as Vice Chair starting in 2019. As a long-term strategic plan, Professor John Santiago was going to handle the outreach community programs to educate parents and their kids emphasizing what engineering and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) is all about. John Meredith will handle setting up the technical session activities. The partnership was planned as a team effort. John Meredith set up the following first IEEE technical session held at CTU while Professor Santiago hosted and handled the local logistics:
IEEE Pikes Peak Section Two-Part Meeting, September 27. Part 1: Cybersecurity: Threat and Risk Management and Part 2: “The President’s Forum” – A Three-Hour Live Video Conference with the IEEE President, Jim Jefferies and senior leadership. Key topics for Part 1from the presenter, Michael G. Semmens include: the nature of cyber threats, priorities for cybersecurity & the national cyber exchange.
After Professor Santiago completed the Manitou Incline on 26 September 2018, he found that John Meredith, died that same day. Unknown to Professor Santiago, John Meredith has been suffering a blood infection during the past eleven days. Two weeks before John Meredith died what was planned as a family event, the blood infection started. Also, before John Meredith left for his planned family event, one of the last request by John Meredith to Professor Santiago was to take a group photo of the Cybersecurity Meeting. Professor Santiago honored his request with the photo shown below. Before the presentation started, a 1-minute moment of silence was given and a short video clip of John Meredith was shown offering best wishes to IEEE 125th Anniversary in 2008. The planned meeting proceeded as John Meredith would have wanted.
Information about John Meredith used with permission by his wife, Lorraine.
Oral History of Dr. Donald Kraft, IEEE Life Fellow
Donald Kraft an oral history conducted in 2022 by Gene Freeman, IEEE History Center, Piscataway, NJ USA.
Dr. Donald H. Kraft: A Legacy of Innovation and Leadership in Engineering
In the world of engineering and information retrieval, few names shine as brightly as Dr. Donald H. Kraft. As an IEEE Life Fellow and a pioneer in applying fuzzy set theory and genetic algorithms, Dr. Kraft’s journey is a testament to the power of self-leadership and a commitment to lifelong learning. His story, featured on the IEEE Pikes Peak Section’s “Stories of LMAG Members” webpage, is more than an account of professional success—it’s an inspiration for anyone striving to develop their technical skillset and lead with purpose.
Self-Leadership: The Key to Innovation
Dr. Kraft’s career exemplifies the principles of self-leadership, where curiosity and determination pave the way for groundbreaking achievements. As a professor emeritus at Louisiana State University, he dedicated his life to advancing the field of information retrieval, contributing innovations that continue to shape the discipline today.
His key accomplishments include:
- Pioneering Research: Dr. Kraft applied fuzzy set theory and genetic algorithms to information retrieval, introducing innovative solutions that enhanced computational systems’ efficiency and accuracy.
- Recognitions: His work earned him prestigious titles such as IEEE Fellow (2002), Fellow of the International Fuzzy Systems Association, and Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Lessons in Self-Leadership:
- Pursue Lifelong Learning: Dr. Kraft’s ability to blend technical mastery with cutting-edge research highlights the importance of staying curious and committed to personal growth.
- Embrace Challenges: By tackling complex problems in information retrieval, he demonstrated how self-motivation and perseverance can lead to impactful solutions.
- Stay Grounded in Purpose: His focus on practical applications of theoretical research ensured his innovations had real-world relevance, inspiring engineers to align their skills with broader societal goals.
Developing Your Technical Skillset
Dr. Kraft’s career underscores the importance of building and honing a robust technical foundation. His mastery of computational intelligence and its applications didn’t just happen overnight—it was the result of years of focused effort and intellectual curiosity.
Here’s how you can follow in his footsteps:
- Explore Emerging Fields: Like Dr. Kraft, stay ahead of the curve by exploring new methodologies and interdisciplinary approaches in your work.
- Commit to Excellence: His contributions to fuzzy systems and genetic algorithms were groundbreaking because of his dedication to thorough research and precision.
- Share Knowledge: Teaching at Louisiana State University allowed Dr. Kraft to pass his expertise to future engineers, reinforcing the idea that teaching is an essential part of mastering your craft.
Leadership Through Service
Dr. Kraft’s story isn’t just about technical expertise—it’s also about leadership. His active involvement in the IEEE Computational Intelligence Society and the Computer Society highlights his dedication to supporting and uplifting the engineering community.
Key Takeaways:
- Engage with Professional Organizations: Dr. Kraft’s leadership within IEEE provided him opportunities to collaborate, mentor, and inspire others.
- Preserve and Share Your Legacy: His oral history, recorded by Gene Freeman, Chair of the IEEE Pikes Peak Computer Society Chapter, captures his journey and contributions, ensuring his work continues to inspire generations.
- Lead by Example: His service to IEEE exemplifies how leaders can guide others not just through their accomplishments but by fostering a spirit of innovation and collaboration.
Inspiration for Future Engineers
Dr. Donald H. Kraft’s legacy is a shining example of what self-leadership and a strong technical skillset can achieve. For engineers and students looking to make their mark, his story offers valuable lessons:
- Stay Curious: Innovation begins with a question—never stop asking “what if?”
- Invest in Yourself: Cultivate your skills through education, experimentation, and collaboration.
- Give Back: Whether through teaching, mentoring, or professional service, share your knowledge to inspire and uplift others.
As you navigate your own career, let Dr. Kraft’s journey remind you that leadership begins with leading yourself, and success is measured by the impact you leave on others.
Dr. Kraft’s contributions to IEEE and the engineering world reflect a lifetime of passion, persistence, and purpose. His story reminds us that through dedication to self-improvement and service, we too can create a legacy of excellence and inspiration.
John R. Reinert, D.M., has dedicated over five decades to the IEEE, significantly impacting both the organization and the engineering community. His extensive service is highlighted in his biography, detailing his professional achievements and numerous leadership roles within IEEE.
Professional Background:
Dr. Reinert is the retired President of Colorado Management Solutions, Inc., a technical management consulting firm. He also served as Director of Program Management and R&D at Aeroflex Colorado Springs, overseeing corporate research and development programs. His technical expertise is evidenced by five patents in electronic design and multiple published papers. Academically, he holds a BSEE from Colorado State University, an MSEE from Arizona State University, and a Doctorate in Management from Colorado Technical University.
IEEE Leadership Roles:
Throughout his IEEE tenure, Dr. Reinert has held pivotal positions:
- IEEE-USA President (1998): As the first member-elected president, he played a crucial role in representing U.S. IEEE members and addressing their professional concerns.
- Region 5 Director (1996-1997): He provided strategic direction and leadership across multiple sections within the region.
- Pikes Peak Section Leadership: Dr. Reinert has been an active member of the Executive Committee since 1984, serving as Chair (1988), Vice Chair (1987), Secretary (1986), and Treasurer (2015-2023).
- Committee Involvement: His participation extends to various committees and boards, including the IEEE Board of Directors, Member and Geographic Activities Board, and the Technical Activities Board Strategic Planning Committee.
Awards and Recognitions:
Dr. Reinert’s contributions have earned him several accolades:
- Region 5 Director’s Award for Sections Congress Leadership (2023): Recognizing his leadership in organizing and coordinating the Sections Congress.
- IEEE Millennium Medal (2000): Honoring his outstanding contributions to the engineering profession.
- Robert S. Walleigh Distinguished Contributions to Engineering Professionalism Award (2003): Acknowledging his dedication to engineering professionalism.
Community Engagement:
Beyond IEEE, Dr. Reinert has been involved in educational initiatives, serving on advisory boards for the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs and participating in the Colorado Science Olympiad.
Dr. Reinert’s enduring commitment to IEEE and the engineering field exemplifies leadership, innovation, and service, making him a distinguished figure within the community.
See image below to enlarge:
John Reinert has over 50 years serving in numerous positions at IEEE.
Note: Please refresh browser to see photo gallery below.
Russ Bogardus has been a consistent contributor to the IEEE Pikes Peak Section serving in a variety of officer positions in the Section. Russ has been a Pikes Peak Section member for over 25 years and activity engaged in the
leadership (Treasurer, Vice-Chair, Chair, EXCOM member) for the past 10 years. He has done many humanitarian projects around the world and his latest one is described below.
Russ Bogardus graduated with a B.S.E.E. from Union College (Tau Beta Phi, Eda Nappa Nu) (Schenectady, NY) and a M.S.E.E from the University of Rochester (Rochester, NY). His courses centered on system and control theory and signal and state estimation. He spent the next 40 years working for IBM Federal System (25 years) and Lockheed Martin Mission Systems (15 years) as a system engineer and chief engineer His projects included submarine detection and tracking, terrain following radar, and the GPS Command and Control System. After retiring he became a P.E. in the state of Colorado and volunteers with Engineering Ministries International designing electrical infrastructure for missionaries in the world’s poorest countries.
Date/Time: 27 Sep 2022: 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm
Location: 4110 North Academy Blvd (Old Chicago), Colorado Springs , CO 80918
REGISTER: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/321749
Slide Show Presentation from Russ Bogardus
As LMAG Chair, David Bondurant has given several presentations in the Section as well as performing several duties at the IEEE Regional level.
CONGRATULATIONS TO DAVID BONDURANT!
For being the recipient of the 2022 MGA Achievement Award in Region 5, well-deserved congratulations go to one of our leaders in the Pikes Peak Section
DAVID BONDURANT
Chair, Life Member Affinity Group (LMAG)
IEEE Pikes Peak Section
“For exemplary leadership and distinguished contributions in promoting IEEE activities at the Section, Council, and Region levels. “
David is a very energetic and valuable advisor to the Section Chair who volunteered as Chair, Life Member Affinity Group (LMAG) Chapter. He collaborated closely with LMAG and Computer Society Chapters in helping to revitalize them as well as delivering quality presentations to the Section. He provided future Section and Chapter Chairs a foundation of documented events with multi-media content for others to follow with a gallery of digital flipbooks and embedded videos serving as one of many examples to inspire future volunteer leaders and members.
While assuming his regional responsibilities, David collaborated closely with LMAG and Computer Society Chapters across the Regions having a global impact in helping to revitalize many chapters. He provided a foundation of documented events for others to further inspire future volunteer leaders and members. His actions are for others to build and improved, especially at the Section-level, while assuming major and numerous leadership roles shown below at the Region Level.
Leadership Roles:
Chair, Life Member Affinity Group (LMAG), Pikes Peak Section (2019-Present)
IEEE Region 5, Pikes Peak North Area LMAG Coordinator in 2019
IEEE Region 5 LMAG Coordinator, 2020-2021
IEEE Life Member Committee Member, 2021-2022
IEEE Life Member Activities Member, 2021-2022
IEEE Life Member Committee Member Activities coordinator for Life Member Committee, 2021-2022
IEEE Computer Society Region 5/6 Coordinator, 2020-2021
IEEE Computer Society Chair of Geographic Activities Committee and Vice Chair of Computer Society Member and Geographical Activities Board
The digital flipbook is the award nomination package for David Bondurant in which he received the Achievement Award.
During COVID lockdown sometime in 2020, Gene Freeman stepped up to become Chair of the Computer Society at the IEEE Pikes Peak Section. Later, serving as Chair of the IEEE Pikes Peak Section (2019-2023), he nominated Gene Freeman as Vice Chair in February 2023, as well as nominating David Bondurant as Section Chair of the IEEE Pikes Peak Section. David Bondurant who worked closely with Gene to continue the revitalization efforts and building upon the efforts from Dr Santiago. As a result of his efforts, Gene received the Jim Leonard Award for Outstanding Member, described later in this webpage. However, like many LMAG members, we are not here in receiving an awards, we are here to guild and build the future technical leaders serving our Section. Gene Freeman best exemplifies the phrase: ” a leaders builds other leaders”.
His dual role and contributions are described next.
Gene Freeman’s Dual Role and Contributions to the IEEE Pikes Peak Section
Gene Freeman has played a significant leadership role within the IEEE Pikes Peak Section, particularly through his service as Vice Chair and Chair of the Computer Society Chapter. His efforts have been instrumental in advancing the section’s initiatives, mentoring future leaders, and fostering collaboration across various IEEE chapters.
Key Roles and Responsibilities
- Vice Chair of the IEEE Pikes Peak Section and Chair of the Computer Society Chapter:
- Freeman has led efforts to organize and co-host educational webinars and events aimed at professional development for IEEE members.
- As Chair, he collaborated with Mary-Ann Hellrigel of the IEEE History Center to record and edit the oral history of Dr. Donald Kraft, an IEEE Life Fellow. This project highlights his dedication to preserving the legacies of distinguished members and inspiring the broader engineering community.
- Mentorship and Leadership Development:
- Freeman recruited and mentored Senthilkumar Mehalingam as Vice Chair of the Computer Society Chapter, ensuring a strong leadership pipeline for the chapter.
- He guided the development of a recruitment survey that successfully identified and onboarded key leaders for other IEEE chapters:
- Dr. Tarek Masaud as Chair for the Power and Energy Society Chapter.
- William Cowell as Vice Chair for the Power and Energy Society Chapter.
- These efforts underscore Freeman’s strategic approach to cultivating leadership talent and promoting cross-disciplinary collaboration.
- Representation and Advocacy:
- Freeman represented the IEEE Pikes Peak Section at the IEEE Sections Congress 2023 in Ottawa, Canada, alongside Treasurer John Reinert. His participation highlights his dedication to advocating for the section’s interests and enhancing its visibility on a global platform.
Impact on the IEEE Pikes Peak Section
Gene Freeman’s contributions reflect his commitment to the IEEE Pikes Peak Section’s growth and vitality. His efforts have:
- Strengthened the leadership infrastructure across multiple chapters.
- Preserved member histories, such as the oral history of Dr. Donald Kraft, to inspire future generations.
- Enhanced the section’s capacity to engage and support its members through targeted recruitment and mentorship initiatives.
Legacy of Leadership and Collaboration
Gene Freeman’s ability to identify, mentor, and support future leaders has left a lasting impact on the IEEE Pikes Peak Section. By fostering collaboration between chapters and ensuring continuity in leadership, he has exemplified the values of service and stewardship. His work continues to strengthen the IEEE community, creating a legacy of innovation, mentorship, and professional excellence.
As a result of Gene Freeman role and contributions to the IEEE Pikes Peak Section, he was the recipient of the Jim Leonard Outstanding Member Award, a prestigious honor bestowed by IEEE Region 5 to recognize individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service to their Section, Region, and the broader IEEE community, thereby advancing the organization’s objectives.
In April 2024, Eugene Freeman was honored with this award during the IEEE Region 5 Annual Meeting Banquet in Springdale, Arkansas.
Freeman’s recognition reflects his significant contributions to the IEEE Pikes Peak Section, where he has held pivotal leadership roles, including Vice Chair and Chair of the Computer Society Chapter. His efforts have been instrumental in organizing educational events, mentoring emerging leaders, and fostering collaboration within the engineering community. Notably, Freeman played a key role in recording and editing the oral history of Dr. Donald Kraft, an IEEE Life Fellow, in partnership with the IEEE History Center.
The award is named in honor of Jim V. Leonard, an esteemed IEEE Life Fellow and former President of IEEE-USA, whose career was marked by significant contributions to engineering professionalism and leadership within IEEE. The Jim Leonard Outstanding Member Award continues his legacy by acknowledging members who exemplify dedication and service to the engineering profession.
Eugene Freeman’s receipt of this award underscores his commitment to advancing IEEE’s mission and his impactful service within the Region 5 community
Below is his contributions during the COVID award from previous year but was used to build for another award for next year.
A LEADER BUILDS OTHER LEADERS
Leadership as a Journey of Service, Growth, and Faith
Leadership is more than holding a title or achieving personal success—it is a responsibility to serve others, nurture growth, and create meaningful impact. My experiences as an IEEE Faculty Advisor at Colorado Technical University (CTU) since 2008, a 26-year career in the U.S. Air Force, and decades of teaching have shaped my understanding of leadership as an act of stewardship, rooted in humility and guided by faith. For IEEE members, leadership offers the unique opportunity to empower others, drive technical innovation, and leave a legacy of collaboration and service.
The following story shares lessons and strategies that have guided my journey, offering actionable insights for IEEE students, young professionals, and seasoned members to grow as leaders within the IEEE community.
Leadership in Action: The IEEE and CTU Experience
As Faculty Advisor for CTU’s IEEE Student Branch since 2008, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring students and overseeing projects that combine technical innovation with entrepreneurial principles. From advising student’s on organizing solar engineering conferences to guiding students in building Arduino quadcopters and Tesla coils, my role has been to create an environment where creativity and collaboration thrive.
At CTU, I championed and successfully advocated to my dean and colleagues to integrate the Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network (KEEN) framework into engineering courses, blending technical skills with entrepreneurial mindsets to prepare students for real-world challenges. This approach embodies leadership as a partnership—empowering students to lead, innovate, and collaborate within and beyond the IEEE community.
Key Lessons: Empowerment, Humility, and Faith
- Empowering Others
Leadership is about enabling others to realize their potential. At CTU, my role as Faculty Advisor has focused on empowering students to take initiative and explore new ideas. Whether guiding capstone projects on wireless power transfer or mentoring students in hosting technical events, the goal has always been to foster autonomy and innovation.
- One story I’d like to share is when a group of students, mostly military veterans, approach me if we had an IEEE student branch, and I said no but I let them figure it out and they did with writing their own IEEE student branch constitution. They did the so-called ‘dirty work’ and the other students followed their example with more innovative and inspiring student projects. This is what I meant as the ‘ripple or butterfly’ effect of doing little things to make big things happen.
- Another example of empowering others is one exceptional student wanted to build a 3D-printed quadcopter but had no control theory experience. I just told him to look for Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) controllers. To the other colleagues surprise, he did built a very nice 3D-printered, dual-Arduino microcontroller system. He added a magnetometer as well and followed the suggestion on testing with bungie cords. He did all this while traveling from Denver to Colorado Springs only when there is a design review during the 5th week and 10th week of our quarter system. He did a great job! I did suggest to him to find an application for his drone and he used a cost analysis of wildfires based on the Walden wildfire experience at Colorado Springs. He did a great job in terms of the cost savings of man-power intensive mopping up wifefire operations vs a series of drones with IR cameras. I suggested for further research is to add wind-compensation resulting from Colorado winds as well as the wind-drafts from wildfires. His work was inspired by the IEEE CTU student branch on their single-Arduino quadcopter.
For IEEE members, empowering others might mean mentoring young professionals, facilitating interdisciplinary projects, or sharing expertise through conferences and publications. True leadership lies in building up those around you.
- Embracing Humility
Humility has been a cornerstone of my leadership philosophy. As Chief Scientist, Technical Director and Deputy Commander at the European Office of Aerospace R&D, I learned the importance of listening and learning from others, especially in multicultural and multidisciplinary settings. This humility carried over to my role at CTU, where I continually learn from students and colleagues while fostering a culture of mutual respect.
IEEE leaders can cultivate humility by valuing diverse perspectives, acknowledging team contributions, and embracing opportunities to learn and grow.
- Walking with Faith
Faith has been my guiding light through every stage of leadership. It reminds me to lead with integrity, serve others selflessly, and remain accountable for my actions. As a Catholic, I view leadership as a calling to reflect God’s principles of justice, compassion, and stewardship. For IEEE members, faith—whether spiritual or in the potential of others—can provide the resilience and purpose needed to lead effectively.
Strategies for Technical Leadership: A Practical Framework
To inspire and equip IEEE members for leadership, I propose a three-tiered framework emphasizing self-leadership, team leadership, and organizational leadership.
- Self-Leadership: Building a Strong Foundation
- Adopt a Growth Mindset: Use tools like John Wooden’s Pyramid of Success to cultivate perseverance and resilience.
- Embrace Lifelong Learning: Leverage IEEE resources and initiatives, such as technical workshops and student branches, to expand your knowledge and skills.
- Cultivate Gratitude and Faith: Anchor your leadership in humility, gratitude, and a commitment to serve.
- Team Leadership: Fostering Collaboration
- Encourage Innovation: Promote creative problem-solving and experimentation, as I have done with student-led projects at CTU.
- Value Diversity: Recognize and harness the unique strengths of your team members.
- Mentor Actively: Offer guidance and support to students and young professionals, creating a ripple effect of leadership within the IEEE community.
- Organizational Leadership: Driving Impact
- Lead with Vision: Align your efforts with IEEE’s mission of advancing technology for humanity.
- Incorporate Entrepreneurial Principles: Integrate frameworks like the KEEN mindset to address complex challenges with curiosity, connection, and value creation.
- Utilize Resources: Explore opportunities within IEEE’s regional and global networks to collaborate on impactful projects.
Examples of Leadership in Action
Student Engagement at CTU
- Arduino Quadcopters and Tesla Coils: Guided students in hands-on projects that combined technical rigor with creativity.
- Solar Engineering Conferences: Supported students in hosting events that promoted renewable energy awareness.
- Mentoring for Real-World Impact: Helped students apply the KEEN framework to capstone projects, such as designing wireless power transfer systems and compressed air tire inflation devices.
Regional IEEE Leadership
As Chair and Webmaster for the IEEE Pikes Peak Section (Sep 2018-2023) and especially during the COVID lockdown, I attempted to foster an environment of collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to foster innovation and professional growth across the region. Through innovative use of Zooom and other tele-conferencing methods, mentoring other IEEE leaders reinforced my belief in the power of collective leadership to achieve shared goals, as well as developing a leadership pipeline for a sustainable and vibrant Section of talented and technical volunteers.
Call to Action: Lead with Purpose and Service
Leadership in IEEE is an opportunity to make a difference—not just in technology but in the lives of those we mentor and inspire. Here are three actionable steps for IEEE members to begin their leadership journey:
- Mentor Actively: Engage with student branches or young professional groups to share your knowledge and experiences.
- Collaborate Boldly: Lead interdisciplinary projects that address pressing challenges, from sustainability to artificial intelligence.
- Inspire Innovation: Use platforms like IEEE conferences, publications, or local chapters to share ideas and foster innovation.
Let us lead with gratitude, humility, and faith, empowering others to innovate and collaborate in advancing technology for humanity.
Final Thoughts
Leadership, as I have learned through my roles in the military, academia, and IEEE, is a lifelong journey of service, growth, and faith. By sharing our experiences and fostering collaboration, we can create a legacy that transcends personal achievements and contributes to the greater good. Together, let’s continue to inspire the next generation of leaders within the IEEE community
Strategy of Educational Activities Aligned With Region 5 Priorities
The document below was inspired by the trailer in the YouTube video series of interviews shown after this flipbook.
The Blockchain Universe and its Societal and Economic Implications
Dr. John Santiago highly recommends you go through these set of videos. These videos are interviews with Michael Saylor (a CEO of Microstrategy and MIT graduate in aeronautics and astronautics, as well as science, technology, and society). He discussed his thoughts about the intersection of economics (Austrian not Keynesian economics economics), technology, politics, financial, capitalism (e.g. bitcoin miners as early warning systems to secure the network), spatial and temporal dimensions about bitcoin.
Michael Saylor has developed a free education platform called Saylor Academy at https://saylor.org. From their website, over 2,127,519 students that have started their journey, and build your bridge to better anywhere, any time, with free courses.
Dr. John Santiago plans to post other multimedia resources in preparing you for the upcoming paradigms shifts associated with the bitcoin universe. Please let Dr John Santiago know of any insightful content as we navigate through this bitcoin journey.
The value you get from these 18 videos depends upon on your ENERGY to learn it based on your curiosity, connections and creating value. You’ll have a big picture or system of systems perspective that you will not see currently in the academic world. Hopefully, this will help you in your engineering career.
For those who are interested in forming a group to dig deeper in various topics in dealing with this bitcoin universe, please let Dr. Santiago know.
Here is a new and work-in-progress webpage dealing with blockchain technology and its implications with respect to the impact and benefits to society : https://r5.ieee.org/pikespeak/blockchain-technology
Experimenting With AI
Here is a playlist demonstrating the video content creations by Dr. Santiago.
The initial series of videos shows applications of AI.
The second video and fourth video use AI Talking Photos in various parts of the video. Here a static photo was converted into a talking-head video. The talking photo software is still evolving as the talking-head video currently does not have eyes that blink occasionally and does not have any arms movement to make it more realistic. The next iteration of talking-head videos should incorporate these features. Another AI app was also used to stitch together some stock videos.
The third video is Dr Santiago’s bio given Gene Freeman for his talk, during 2024 IEEE Education Week, a 5-webinar series on AI from Region 5 Section, with IEEE Pikes Peak Section as lead host. The fifth and fun video is another use of Talking Photos as videos which stitches together a series of AI generated videos created as talking photos. The image photos of Dr. Santiago are generated using AI as well.
The other videos series includes topics such as short videos on the entrepreneurial mindset leading to the use of the Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network (or KEEN) framework.
Mindmap (or Sitemap) of the IEEE Pikes Peak Section Website
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Dr John Santiago’s Bookcase of Recent Publications
A Demonstration of Interactive Video Using H5P
Dr J’s IEEE Documentation as Section Chair (Oct 2018-Feb 2023)
The example nomination form below is an example of how the IEEE Pikes Peak Section website can be used to provide credible information to the nomination package:
The example nomination form below is an example of how the IEEE Pikes Peak Section website can be used to provide credible information to the nomination package:
Leadership and Growth/Entrepreneurial Engineering Mindset Philosophy
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John Wooden’s Pyramid of Success
Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network (KEEN) Framework
KEEN Educational Outcomes
A Further Breakdown on A Leader Builds Other Leaders
The quote “A Leader Builds Other Leaders” was inspired by Dr. John Santiago’s lifetime study of John Wooden’s Pyramid of Success since graduating from UCLA. He frequently reflected on his lessons learned during his engineering career as a technical engineering leader as an Air Force officer, a university educator and a bucket-list entrepreneur while teaching.
The intent of the web section is to provide inspiration and lessons learned to Young Professional (YP) engineers and IEEE student members based on the engineering careers from the Life Member Affinity Group (LMAG) members shown on the tabs below. We, LMAG members, are not here to receive awards or other forms of recognition. We are here to serve others to guide future technical leaders.
But first, let’s explain the quote.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the quote: “A leader builds other leaders,” emphasizes the essence of leadership as a generative and empowering process.
Core Interpretation
- Empowering Others:
- Leadership isn’t about holding power over others but about equipping people to lead themselves and others effectively.
- A true leader sees the potential in others and invests in their growth to help them succeed independently.
- Legacy of Leadership:
- The mark of a great leader lies in the ability to create a chain of leadership, just like a continuity folder serves to help the next person build based on the lesson learned on what you did. When leaders inspire and mentor others to become leaders, they establish a sustainable culture of progress and innovation.
- This reflects the idea that leadership is not about personal accolades but about contributing to a broader vision.
- Selflessness in Leadership:
- Building other leaders requires humility and a willingness to share knowledge, opportunities, and influence.
A leader focuses on the collective success of the group or organization rather than seeking credit for individual achievements. As one of my former supervisors say, ‘just get the process started’. My interpretation, is ‘just get the conversation rolling’ or ‘let the narrative debate and discussion begin.’
Practical Applications
- Mentorship:
- Leaders actively mentor others by sharing experiences, skills, and insights to prepare them for leadership roles.
- This involves fostering critical thinking, decision-making abilities, and resilience.
- Encouraging Ownership:
- Leaders delegate responsibilities and provide team members with opportunities to lead initiatives. Humorously, this is what I briefed at a ‘hail and farewell’ dinner known as the 3D Leadership Philosophy: “do it, delegate it, or ditch it”. Could this be related to self-leadership, team leadership and organization leadership. I’ll let ChatGPT figure out.
- By doing so, they instill confidence and accountability, which are key traits of effective leaders.
- Creating a Leadership Pipeline:
- Strong leaders build systems and structures within organizations to identify, nurture, and elevate future leaders. From a national security perspective, our Great Nation cannot afford anything less. That is what the military academies are for and according to Dr Santiago, a former United States Air Force (USAF) educator these academies are just engineering schools with a strong emphasis on leadership built around sports, academics, and the study of leadership lesson of past great military leaders. And who’s vision started these academies? You guessed right, George Washington, one of first agricultural engineers.
- This ensures continuity and innovation even after their tenure. And that is why George Washington voluntarily stepped down after his 2nd term as the first president so he did not want set a precedent that can be viewed as a monarchy. Similar, following George Washington’s example, I voluntarily stepped down as section chair during COVID (serving from Sept 2018 to Feb 2023) because since I somewhat broke the rules due to the lockdown, I did not want to set a past and traditional precedent of one or two years. Some may view it that I did not want to do it anymore which is not true. So, I nominated David Bondurant as Section Chair and Gene Freeman as Section Vice-Chair to help carry on. Together, this was the first phase of revitalizing the Section. The key leadership positions are mostly LMAG members which was a concerned of mind. We need to have Young Professionals (YPs) assume these Section leadership positions. Then as LMAG members, we can collectively guide and mentor them during their one or two-year mentorship program.
- As a result of serving a dual role at the Region or higher and Section levels of leadership by David and Gene, Dr Santiago nominated both for them with many awards from IEEE at the national and region level. Since Dr Santiago has never done IEEE awards, he leveraged his USAF experience with similar awards. Fortunately, David Bondurant won one of the awards and Gene Freeman won as well a year later than David. This shows that a leader recognizes ‘work well done’ when their folks richly deserve it.
Broader Implications
- Cultural Impact:
- A leader who builds other leaders helps create a culture of collaboration, shared vision, and continuous development.
- This approach fosters a ripple effect, where empowered leaders go on to inspire and cultivate the next generation.
- Sustainability in Leadership:
- The success of an organization, community, or movement often depends on the ability to sustain leadership through transitions.
- Leaders who develop other leaders ensure long-term resilience and adaptability.
In essence, the quote reflects a profound truth about leadership: its ultimate goal is not to accumulate followers but to empower others to lead, creating a legacy of collective growth and transformation. This aligns with the principles of servant leadership and the understanding that leadership is about serving a purpose greater than oneself.
Hopefully, you will gleam what it takes to have a successful engineering career living in this Great Nation. By understanding their leadership profiles, you can start charting and building your storied careers.
From an engineer’s perspective, the Founding Fathers were collectively geniuses and system engineers in creating this exceptional Nation given their understanding of failures of past democracies.
It is important to note that Engineering Week is celebrated on George Washington’s Birthday, 22 February 22, 1732.
Also, Three Presidents Die on July 4th: Just a Coincidence? | Constitution Center. It’s also interesting that John Adams (2nd President) and Thomas Jefferson (3rd President) both died on the same day on July 4 1826, 50th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The fifth president, James Monroe, died on July 4, 1931.