Camilo Fernando, an Offshore Structural Engineer from Chennai, India, was searching for a MBA programme bridging the gap between technical engineering teams and business development departments, when he discovered the perfect opportunity at the University of Aberdeen.
Graduating with an MBA in Energy Management, the 33-year-old explains how the course strongly resonated with his future aspirations.
“In my search for a MBA program, I came across the MBA in Energy Management offered by the University of Aberdeen.
“Renowned as the epicentre of the North Sea European hydrocarbon mining industry, Aberdeen is complemented by the University's distinguished reputation for innovative pedagogy and industry engagement.
“The moment I heard Mr. Russell Williams, the program director, speak about the course, my excitement soared. The career mentoring program and innovative assessment approach captivated me as a budding energy professional.”
The University not only offered Camilo his desired career prospects but also presented him with the chance to embrace his interests and passions. Camilo was part of the Archery Club – one of his favourite hobbies and he actively took part in competitive league matches against other universities.
“Archery trained me with patience and resilience: The ability to wait patiently for the right wind direction and the resilience to continue aiming for the perfect shot, irrespective of the outcome of the previous arrows!”
And he even had the opportunity to represent the University at the 44th International Association for Energy Economics Conference held at the King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Centre in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
He presented a paper on the evaluation of performance dimensions in hydrogen supply chain pathways, utilising life cycle sustainability analysis (LCSA) and network analytics to examine the energy transition of the hydrocarbon industry.
Now he’s excited to hit the ground running, looking ahead to the next step in his journey.
“The culmination of my journey in the MBA Energy Management program at the University has been exhilarating. I’m filled with a profound sense of achievement that helps me overcome the imposter syndrome.
“I’ve not only acquired specialised knowledge and honed essential skills, but also had the privilege of exchanging wisdom with an extraordinary cohort, consisting of energy enthusiasts from various disciplines, including engineering, geoscience, marketing, sales, energy analysis, and the trading industry.”
Looking back on his time at the University, Camilo is proud of everything he’s achieved and is confident the skills and experienced gained through learning will continue to empower him.
“As I reflect upon my academic journey, I’m overwhelmed with a deep-seated sense of pride. I’m excited to implement my newfound wisdom and knowledge, leaving a positive imprint upon the energy industry.
“I’m ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that await, driven by the desire to make a transformative impact in the dynamic realm of energy, using my engineering and MBA skills. I hope to contribute to the advancement of energy resources in an efficient and responsible manner, focusing on sustainability through social, environmental, and economic dimensions.
“I strive to utilise my professional and personal skills, rooted with my personal ethos, for the sustainability of human life on our precious planet – for the benefit and betterment of all!”