Obidimma Ikeh is a distinguished licensed metallurgical and materials engineer, certified by the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) with over 10 years of experience in the field. He was born and raised in his country home, Nkwe, Enugu State, Nigeria. Ikeh developed an early interest in materials and engineering from a young age. He was captivated by the world around him, constantly curious about how things were made and what they were made from. Ikeh pursued his passion academically, earning a Bachelor of Engineering in Metallurgical and Materials Engineering (second-class upper division) from Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu, Nigeria, where his research focused on the effect of electric arc inputs on the microstructure of mild steel weldment. After graduation, he took up the role of Procurement and Quality Assurance Assistant Manager at Macrev Engineering Service, and from there, he then proceeded to McCXEN Limited as Senior Materials Engineer and Inspection Manager. While in McCXEN, Ikeh obtained a Master of Engineering degree in Industrial Metallurgy and Corrosion Management from the University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria, while serving as an adjunct lecturer at the same time, educating the next generation of engineers with a hands-on learning and real-world applications teaching philosophy, ensuring that his students were well-prepared for careers in the industry. He graduated from the University of Benin with a summa cum laude (distinction) and his research focused on the effect of welding parameters on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and hydrogen-induced corrosion resistance of steel weldment. His master’s degree and research were fully funded by the Federal Government of Nigeria under the auspices of the Federal Scholarship Board through the Federal Ministry of Education. This merit-based award and incentive was awarded to him based on his progressive research contributions, performance in qualifying computer-based test examinations, expert knowledge, and academic excellence in the materials and metallurgical engineering field.
Driven by a passion for education stemming from his curiosity about how materials were formed, Ikeh transitioned to the world of doctoral journey. Currently, he is a research assistant and Ph.D. candidate at the University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America with over 80% in scholarship funding, and making significant contributions to the synthesis and development of energy-efficient and sustainable structural materials, particularly aluminum-cerium alloys for high-temperature applications. These alloys have shown great promise in engineering applications due to their superior mechanical properties and corrosion resistance, aligning with his early interests. In addition to his research work, Ikeh holds a position as a Consulting Director of Materials Engineering at Topscan Inspection Nigeria Limited and Co-Founder of Ecorays Energy Nigeria Limited, a solar energy venture focused on designing, assembling, and installing solar panel systems on a property, including all necessary components like panels, inverters, racking, and wiring, and converting sunlight into electricity, while also ensuring compliance with local codes and regulations, and often providing maintenance services after installation.
Throughout his career, Ikeh has made significant contributions to the field of metallurgical engineering with over 10 journal articles to his name, collaborated with over 15 scientists from more than 10 countries to publish a book, presented his research work at national and international conferences, earning him professional recognition both nationally and internationally. He is a Fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Professional Engineers and Scientists (NIPES), an honor awarded to him for his outstanding achievements and contributions to metallurgical and materials engineering. He is also an active member of several professional organizations including, The Minerals, Metals and Materials Society, American Welding Society, Society for the Advancement of Materials and Process Engineering, International Society of Fuzzy Set Extensions and Applications, and ASM Internationals.
In addition to his research and professional activities, Ikeh is dedicated to advancing the practice of engineering globally. His work has been featured in newspaper daily advocating for the use of new technologies to improve turnaround maintenance in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, highlighting the critical role of advanced materials in enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of industrial operations. Ikeh is committed to education and mentorship, often volunteering his time to inspire and guide young engineers. He has been involved in various STEM outreach programs, encouraging students to pursue careers in science and engineering. His teaching approach emphasizes practical knowledge and real-world applications, ensuring that his mentees are well-prepared for the challenges of the industry.
Beyond his professional life, Ikeh is passionate about community development and environmental sustainability. He actively participates in local initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and promoting eco-friendly practices. In his free time, he enjoys reading, exploring new technologies, and spending time with his family.
Engr. Obidimma Ikeh ’s career is a testament to his dedication, innovation, and impact on the field of metallurgical and materials engineering. His contributions continue to drive advancements in materials science, benefiting industry, academia, and society at large.
