PROCESS engineer Renee English had many interests as a child. She was passionate about a wide range of careers — from architecture to aerospace/aeronautics to computer programming. The one thing that was common across all her options was her passion for creating and understanding exactly how things work.

She developed an affinity for engineering while at Campion College, even while she continued to struggle to decide on a career path. Chemistry/math teacher ‘Kippie’ Chin helped her narrow down her options.

“He said based on my passion and obsession with numbers, chemical engineering would best suit me. He was sure, but I was not convinced,” English explained.

However, a visit to a bauxite company made the decision easier.

“As I toured the facility I was intrigued by the process of converting red dirt into white powdery alumina,” she said.

“That was when it all clicked. I realised that as a chemical engineer I could convert seemingly useless materials into amazing products that are in demand. I could make lives and the environment better. I could help develop Jamaica. That realisation struck me and it was then that I decided that that was exactly what I wanted to do,” she said.

At the University of Technology she immersed herself in several extra-curricular activities, graduated at the top of the graduating batch with a first-class honours in chemical engineering and received the prestigious President’s Pin. She was also awarded several scholarships and bursaries.

Her career decision was cemented in 2009 when she first served as a summer intern in the technical department at Jamalco. The experience was an eye-opener. She was not only inspired by the process engineers and the workers she interacted with, but the knowledge gained was invaluable.

“It made me confident that I not only wanted to be a chemical engineer but that Jamalco was the place for me, and in December 2012 I landed a full-time job with the company,” she said.

As process engineer, English is assigned to the clarification department where her key responsibilities include monitoring daily operations within the department, problem solving off-target parameters, process optimisation, and advising and training the clarification operating personnel.

She explained that the best part of her job is optimising the process through application of the knowledge gained.

“I have learnt so much and I am energised to improve the processes in my area,” she said.

English has grown both professionally and personally and is honing her skills as an engineer.

“I am feeling absolutely accomplished because my actions and efforts are making a difference. The skills I’ve gained at Jamalco can never be taught in a classroom, only developed through experience,” she explained.

“Personally, I think I’ve become a better, stronger and more self-aware person. Although it seems like the job never ends at times, valuable relationships have been formed and lessons learnt.”

Although English is enjoying her career, it is not without challenges. She cites cost constraints as one of the main hindrances to being more creative and innovative.

“You really have to be super imaginative, resourceful and persuasive,” she pointed out.

For the future, English would like to further her education in the field of membrane technology and improve separation processes, possibly with Alcoa’s technology delivery group.

“However, for now I plan to push my limits, maximise my potential and become a great engineer,” she said.

For those interested in the career, she said the opportunities, challenges and teamwork make it a great option.

“Additionally, overcoming an obstacle or solving a difficult problem is, in my opinion, one of the best feelings. The feeling of self-accomplishment is amazing, very rewarding and very fulfilling.”