Ghanaian engineer shines globally in energy sector
Ghanaian engineer, Michael Larbi Gyaabeng, is making waves in the global energy industry with his exceptional technical expertise, innovative research, and life-saving interventions.
The impressive career of Mr Gyaabeng has earned him local and international recognition and accolades over the years.
The engineer first rose to prominence in 2019 when he won the prestigious Ghana Gas Challenge, a highly competitive national competition that attracted top talent from various industries and academic institutions.
The achievement marked a national acknowledgement of his deep expertise and leadership potential in the energy sector.
Global recognition
Currently, Mr Gyaabeng serves as a Project Engineer with ONEOK, one of North America's leading natural gas companies, where he works on projects that ensure pipeline integrity, advance hydrogen embrittlement mitigation, and enable the safe integration of hydrogen into existing natural gas infrastructure.
His research at the University of Oklahoma's Hydrogen-Natural Gas Integration Laboratory focused on hydrogen blending, fracture toughness of pipeline materials, and the safe transport of hydrogen through the USA pipeline infrastructure.
This research has garnered national recognition, supported by competitive funding from the US Department of Transportation.
With a proven track record of national recognition, technical excellence, life-saving intervention, and groundbreaking research, Mr Gyaabeng stood as a global ambassador for the vital role of African engineers in shaping the future of safe, reliable, and sustainable energy worldwide.
His achievements serve as an inspiration to young engineers and professionals in the energy sector, demonstrating the impact that dedication, expertise, and innovation can have on a global scale.
Life-saving intervention
Following his win, Mr Gyaabeng was contracted by Ghana's national gas entity to support the country's LPG production and rollout efforts.
He played a crucial role in advancing Ghana's strategic plan to increase LPG usage as a cleaner, safer alternative to firewood. This initiative aimed to reduce deforestation, improve public health, and expand access to sustainable energy across the country.
His technical contributions were instrumental in supporting the development and execution of this plan, which targeted significant LPG adoption by 2030 in the country.
One of the most defining moments in Mr Gyaabeng's career came during his service with Ghana's national gas infrastructure, where his quick thinking and technical expertise prevented a major industrial disaster.
Amid a critical operational incident at one of the nation's key gas facilities, his decisive actions averted what could have been a catastrophic accident with devastating human and economic consequences.
The country risked losing over $1.3 billion worth of gas assets, in addition to the potential loss of life and severe environmental damage had the incident escalated.
The engineer’s intervention safeguarded critical national infrastructure, protected workers, and preserved the energy supply for millions of Ghanaians.
Leadership and mentorship
Gyaabeng's influence extends beyond industry. As a former Vice President of NextGen Geo, USA, he has advocated for energy education, promoted global collaboration, and mentored emerging energy professionals.
Prior to this, he also served as SPE Petroleum Quiz chairperson, SPE International Ghana Section (UMAT).
His leadership and mentorship have made a significant impact on the global energy community.
