Anthony D. Santamaria

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About

Dr. Anthony D. Santamaria is a leading voice in engineering education, with his research centered on integrating entrepreneurship into the undergraduate engineering curriculum, particularly for first-year students. His most-cited work, "Innovation to Entrepreneurship in the First Year Engineering Experience" (2015, 19 citations), has been instrumental in reshaping how foundational engineering programs are designed. Rather than focusing solely on technical fundamentals, Dr. Santamaria champions the KEEN (Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network) philosophy, embedding entrepreneurial mindset—curiosity, connections, and creating value—directly into early engineering design experiences. This contribution provides a replicable framework for educators to foster innovation and business acumen from day one, moving beyond traditional problem-solving to cultivate student agency and real-world impact. His work has influenced curriculum development at multiple institutions, helping to produce engineers who are not only technically proficient but also equipped to identify opportunities and drive economic growth. Dr. Santamaria’s scholarship continues to bridge the gap between academic engineering and entrepreneurial practice, making him a key figure in the movement to produce more adaptable, opportunity-minded graduates.