By Abubakar Imam
A Professor of Chemical Engineering at the famous Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), United States of America, Tom Kinney, has emphasised the importance of openness and curiosity among Engineering students, particularly those of the Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Ilorin, in order for them to achieve lifelong relevance.
Prof. Kinney gave this advice penultimate Wednesday (October 22, 2025) while presenting a virtual seminar, titled “Getting It Right: Transitions From Chemical Engineering to the Industry” to students and staff members of the Department. The seminar was facilitated by a Senior Lecturer at the Department, Dr Mary Ajala.
The American don said that the students needed to be open and inquisitive so that they can expose themselves to diverse experiences and for them to be able to network widely to achieve consistent relevance.
The renowned scholar advised Unilorites to step outside their comfort zones, pursue internships, and take advantage of available learning opportunities.
He also implored them to deliberately bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and industrial practice as he described Chemical Engineers as the “connecting tissue” between Chemists and Mechanical Engineers in problem-solving processes.
Prof. Kinney equally highlighted the importance of transparent communication, sharing assumptions, calculations, and research as he said that success in industry requires both technical and interpersonal skills.
Speaking on misconceptions that needed to be overcome early in their career,
Prof. Kinney explained that industry operations differ significantly from classroom experiences as he pointed out that precision and accountability are critical because errors are costly.
He reminded them that stakeholders would always value clear and decisive outcomes over complex theoretical explanations as he urged young engineers to focus on action, sound judgment and delivering results effectively.
Prof. Kinney equally advised participants to define expectations by understanding what their roles require and what they, in turn, expect from the organisation.
He said that by meeting and exceeding these expectations, professionals can distinguish themselves and achieve long-term success.
While responding to a question, Prof. Kinney encouraged participants to ensure that they effectively merge “confidence with substance and perseverance”.
In his remarks, the Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Ilorin, Dr E. O. Ajala encouraged students to strengthen professional networks and foster collaborations between MIT and her Department.
He also expressed gratitude to the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof.Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, for his continuous support to the University’s Chemical Engineering programme and for granting permission for her and her colleagues to participate in the MIT-ETT Fellowship.
Also speaking, an Associate Professor at the Department of Chemical Engineering, Dr George Adeniyi, commended Dr Mary Ajala for her initiative. He also thanked Prof. Kinney for his time and valuable contributions.
The seminar was attended by students and lecturers of the Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Ilorin.
