Project Manager/Kennel Master at RONCO Consulting Corp.
Former SF officer now leads the dog team assigned to protect U.S. embassy in Kabul.
By Warren Duffie 

As commander of a team of Americans and South Africans, Roberto Santiago believes in effective communication. Although his employees are close-knit warriors in the War on Terror, they are still shaped by their cultural, national and regional identities. So it’s vital to establish and maintain a clear mission plan.

“When I took this job, one of the first things I did was implement changes on how people could give input,” said Santiago, who served in both the Navy and Air Force. “That way they felt they had a stake in things. When I made a decision, they would understand why and would follow a clear plan of action. Good communication is key, especially when working with people from different countries.”

On the Job
Santiago, 44, is a project manager/kennel master for RONCO Consulting Corporation. RONCO specializes in humanitarian mine clearance, security, environmental remediation, and post-conflict operations. Founded in 1981, the firm employs more than 1,600 people in over 35 countries – including Afghanistan, Iraq, Mozambique, Sri Lanka and Sudan.

Santiago is based at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan, where he oversees a crew of 40 dog handlers and trainers. RONCO dog teams are trained to detect and counter threats from explosive devices such as IEDs, car bombs, unexploded munitions and land mines.

“My team is responsible for making sure that embassy staff members are safe,” said Santiago, a former master sergeant. “A good day for us is one where nothing happens, since we are a prominent target.”

Because of the sensitive nature of his work, Santiago wouldn’t reveal many details about his job. He works 12- to 14-hour days, seven days a week. His shifts consist of meetings, tending to personnel matters, and helping to care for and train embassy canines.

“You have to work with the dogs on a regular basis,” Santiago said. “Like people, they require constant practice to keep their skills sharp.”

In Uniform
A native of the Bronx, N.Y., Santiago enlisted in the Navy in 1984, completing training as a hospital corpsman. In 1986, seeking a job change, he switched to the Air Force, beginning a career as a security forces officer. Santiago served in Spain, New Mexico, Texas, Korea, Florida and Iraq.

The Transition
In Iraq, he befriended a fellow dog handler stationed at his base. In 2006 Santiago’s friend left the military for a job with RONCO. They stayed in touch, and when Santiago decided to retire in 2008, his friend placed him in contact with a RONCO recruiter.

Santiago and the recruiter found a common bond – motorcycles. They discussed engines and the allure of the open road. Impressed with Santiago’s personality and military experience, the recruiter told him about a RONCO dog handler position in Iraq. Santiago was promoted to his current position in 2010.

“On my résumé, I stressed my experience as a supervisor, how I enjoyed leading people and helping them reach their potential,” Santiago said. “I also highlighted my expertise in security, anti-terrorism and dog handling. I had the job within weeks of retiring."

Network. “Start making contacts with people in the civilian world at least a year before you get out.”

Ask questions. “Ask about salary, benefits, relocation and what you’ll have to do for your money.”

Santiago and the recruiter found a common bond – motorcycles. They discussed engines and the allure of the open road. Impressed with Santiago’s personality and military experience, the recruiter told him about a RONCO dog handler position in Iraq. Santiago was promoted to his current position in 2010.

What Santiago Likes About His Job

• I love working with dogs. They’re among the best creatures on Earth.
• Seeing the training methods I use with dogs stick with them.
• RONCO takes great care of me.