A scholarship from the University of Washington allowed them to earn three professional certificates: 

• Cybersecurity and Risk Management
• Cybersecurity Practitioner Fundamentals
• The Insider Threat Cybersecurity Program

Both IT professionals got their start at the UOG Computer Center as students in the Federal Work-Study program. Santiago joined the team in 2012 and Lacanilao in 2015. 

Santiago chose to work in the IT field because he enjoyed problem-solving. “As a kid, I've always wanted to be an inventor; to create and engineer things has always been a passion of mine," he said. Santiago received his bachelor's degree in computer science at UOG in 2014. 

Lacanilao chose to transition from Marketing to IT due to his love of technology and desire to understand how machines work on a fundamental level. "From a young age, I've had a curious side to me that just loved tinkering with objects," said Lacanilao, who received his bachelor's in business administration from UOG in 2019.

Both are thankful for their University of Guam education and that the knowledge and experiences they gained living and working in Guam's unique island culture.

"Collaborative opportunities at UOG like this certificate program with UW, definitely provide a boost in career growth,” Santiago said.

"We're grateful for the opportunity," added Lacanilao.