Growing up in Nigeria, parents often wanted their children to become doctors, lawyers, or engineers. Patrick Okosodo walked this engineering path until his switch to energy finance.

Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Patrick transitioned from a promising career in engineering to becoming a distinguished investment banker in the United States, specializing in renewable energy. His journey is inspiring and reflects a broader global trend in finance and energy.

Patrick’s early education in Nigeria was steeped in the sciences, leading to a Bachelor of Engineering in Petroleum. This foundation laid the groundwork for his analytical skills and problem-solving abilities. Nigeria’s booming oil and gas industry provided a fertile ground for his initial professional foray, where he honed his expertise in managing complex engineering projects.

Despite his major in engineering, Patrick felt a growing curiosity about the financial aspects of energy projects. This curiosity soon metamorphosed into passion, prompting him to pursue a Master of Science in Finance from Hult International Business School. This bold move was driven by a desire to understand the financial mechanisms that power the global energy sector and to make a more significant impact.

Of course, transitioning from engineering to energy finance had its challenges. Patrick had to learn to interpret financial figures with the same ease he once read engineering data. “Engineers are adept at interpreting numbers in units like joules, kelvin, and psi. Switching to dollars and cents was a notable hurdle,” Patrick shares. “To ensure my impact in finance, I dedicated considerable effort to self-study, investing in training and examinations at my own expense.”

After completing his finance degree, Patrick joined Carbon Reduction Capital LLC, where he diligently advanced to the position of Investment Banking Associate. His role involved financial modelling, due diligence, and transaction management for renewable energy projects. Patrick’s engineering background provided a unique advantage, allowing him to understand the technical and financial intricacies of these projects deeply.

Patrick’s career shift coincides with a global pivot towards renewable energy. As the world grapples with climate change, countries are increasingly investing in sustainable energy solutions. The COP28 summit emphasized the need for a 43% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and a major increase in renewable energy adoption. Patrick’s work at CRC-IB reflects this trend, with significant contributions to projects that are both financially viable and environmentally sustainable. His career shift is intrinsically relevant to the global movement towards sustainable and renewable energy, addressing the urgent need to mitigate climate change impacts.

Patrick’s journey also resonates with the energy landscape in Nigeria. At COP26, Nigeria’s President announced the country’s commitment to carbon neutrality by 2060. The nation’s Energy Transition Plan creates significant investment opportunities in renewable energy. Professionals like Patrick are vital in driving Nigeria’s energy transition. His expertise in both engineering and energy finance positions him as a key player in this critical shift, highlighting the importance of cross-disciplinary knowledge in addressing complex challenges.

A core aspect of Patrick’s philosophy is continuous learning. This commitment is evident in his pursuit of certifications, ongoing education, and engagement with industry trends. By staying updated on market dynamics and technological advancements, Patrick ensures he remains at the forefront of the renewable energy sector.

Patrick Okosodo’s transformation from an engineer in Nigeria to a renewable energy investment banker in the US is a story of determination, adaptability, and vision. His journey underscores the importance of embracing change, continuous learning, and the pursuit of one’s passions. As the world moves towards a more sustainable future, Patrick’s story serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating that with the right mindset, any career transformation is possible.