From RIT to Energy Leader

Meet Alumnus Emeka Iheme

Founder and CEO, Gasavant Africa
’19 Chemical Engineering BS
’13 Public Policy MS

ABOUT: 
“Leading Gasavant Africa, my focus lies in pioneering infrastructure development for gas storage and distribution, ensuring our projects set industry benchmarks in safety, efficiency, and sustainability. The competencies honed through my tenure include advanced manufacturing process improvement and adept oil pipeline management, both critical to our operations and client satisfaction.

With a strategic leadership role in the LPG Downstream and Gas Group LCCI, my efforts are directed towards advocating for and shaping the future of Nigeria's LPG and downstream gas industry. My commitment to this mission is reinforced by my skills in sales pipeline management, which empower us to navigate the complexities of gas trading, logistics, and supply. Our team's dedication to excellence is a cornerstone of our reputation, setting the stage for Africa's gas revolution.”

RIT CO-OP: 
Dresser Rand, an equipment provider for extracting natural gas.
WORK EXPERIENCE:
Falcon Corporation Limited, Technical Assistant to Executive Management
Aiteo Group, Commercial Advisor of Gas & Integration
Execution Edge, Management Consultant
Dresser-Rand, Supplier Quality Engineer 

“With each job that I took, it kept bringing me closer and closer to the companies that produce and explore the resources from the ground, like Shell and Chevron. I was basically in the room where those businesses were starting and that is when my entrepreneurial hunger exploded.”

CURRENT ROLE: 
Iheme collaborates with petroleum industry executives and government officials in Nigeria to extract this essential natural resource locally and deliver it worldwide. 

“Oil and gas are the dominant sectors in my country. And it is all over; it is almost inescapable. I had my mind set on this.” 

PARTNERSHIP WITH RIT:
Recently, Iheme offered ideas for design projects for master’s students.
“I gave RIT 10 possible project problems that are nagging the industry today that, if solved, would each be a billion-dollar opportunity. We have to solve today’s problems for a better tomorrow.”