Education African Scholars Global Connect

Francis I. Odinaka, MSc, MCPM, R. Engr

Advisory Council

Francis I. Odinaka is a dynamic and results-driven professional with over a decade of experience in project management, engineering design, and operational efficiency, particularly in the Oil & Gas sector. He is currently pursuing an MSc in Industrial and Systems Engineering at Northern Illinois University, Dekalb, United States, with a focus on optimizing complex systems and processes for improved safety, productivity, and cost effectiveness. Francis holds a Master’s degree in Construction Project Management from Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom and a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Enugu State University of Science & Technology, Agbani, Enugu, Nigeria.

His professional expertise spans systems optimization, lean principles, and multidisciplinary project execution and delivery.

During his tenure as Project Manager at International Energy Services Limited (IESL), Francis managed high-value engineering, procurement, construction, and installation (EPCI) projects, including the Lomé Firewater Hydrant System Project. His roles have also included enhancing engineering workflows, risk assessment, and stakeholder communication.

As a Graduate Research Assistant at Northern Illinois University, Francis contributes to research on open-source software tools and technology innovations, further honing his analytical and problem-solving skills. A COREN-certified engineer (R17733), he brings expertise in mentoring, stakeholders’ alignment and problem solving.