Dianne Plummer inspires the next generation through STEM education
DIANNE Plummer isn’t your average engineer. Sure, she has the impressive qualifications — a masters in both sustainable energy, bioenergy and mechanical energy, and a successful career path that’s seen her work in process control, bioenergy research, and even energy management. But what truly sets Plummer apart is her unwavering passion for igniting a love of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) in the next generation of Jamaican youth.
Plummer’s story begins in Spanish Town, St Catherine, where her love for STEM blossomed from a young age. Though quiet and reserved at times, her curiosity and love for learning shone through. Excelling in both science and the arts, she knew her future lay somewhere within these disciplines. This path led her to the University of Technology, Jamaica, where she honed her skills in chemical engineering, a foundation that would propel her professional journey.
A thirst for exploration then took Plummer overseas, where she pursued her masters in Sweden and Finland. This experience not only broadened her academic horizons, but also exposed her to the world of entrepreneurship, a seed that would later blossom in her own endeavours.
Studying abroad not only enhanced her technical expertise, but also instilled a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and the power of collaboration.
Plummer’s professional career reflects her multifaceted talents. From her early days as a process control technician at the Jamaica Broilers ethanol plant to her current role in regulatory strategy at JPS, she has consistently sought opportunities to learn and contribute. However, a yearning to share her knowledge and ignite a passion for STEM in others led her down a new path — authorship. With an early childhood school teacher as her mother, and brothers who also ended up pursuing careers in STEM, it’s no surprise that later on Plummer’s advocacy would be rooted in her passion for STEM and early childhood education. Witnessing the transformative power of STEM careers on her friends and family, she recognised the need to ignite this passion in younger generations. This realisation led to the creation of her STEM children’s book series.
These books aren’t just about facts and figures; they’re about sparking a love of learning at a young age. Plummer targets children aged three to seven with her
Science in the Sun series, aiming to introduce them to the wonder of science through fun activities they can do at home with their parents. For the older audience (aged seven to 12), her
Girls’ Guide to STEM tackles the issue of under-representation of women in these fields. By showcasing inspiring role models and the sheer diversity of STEM careers, Plummer empowers young girls to see themselves as future scientists, engineers, and innovators.
“Having experienced how life-changing a career in STEM has been for me, I felt like I needed to give children the opportunity to experience that. I want to use books to show children, especially those in marginalised communities, that STEM is a path to a brighter future,” Plummer explained.
By igniting a love for science at a young age, Plummer hopes to play her part in cultivating the future generation of Jamaican innovators.
The most rewarding aspect? Witnessing the spark of curiosity ignite in young minds. Plummer’s vision extends far beyond individual stories. She envisions a future where all Jamaican children have access to quality STEM education, especially those in underserved communities. She hopes to partner with corporate entities on outreach programmes islandwide to use her books to expand STEM literacy for all young Jamaicans.
“A strong foundation in STEM education is crucial for Jamaica’s future. Everything you’ve touched today came from the genius minds of STEM professionals. So without STEM, there is no innovation, no society. It’s about nurturing problem-solvers, innovators, and the architects of a sustainable tomorrow, to ensure they are equipped to continue,” she said.
For young Jamaicans aspiring to follow a STEM path, Plummer’s advice is simple: explore and be curious, dive into hands-on projects, join science clubs, and ask endless questions.
As a woman in STEM, Plummer has faced her share of challenges. Overcoming stereotypes and proving her capabilities has been a constant process. Yet, she leans on her strong network of mentors and friends, a testament to the power of a supportive community.
Looking back, Plummer pinpoints her time studying abroad as a pivotal moment in her growth.
The exposure to a different culture and the entrepreneurial spirit she encountered ignited a fire within her, a desire to leave the world a better place and empower others to do the same.
For young women considering a career in STEM, Plummer’s message is one of confidence and resilience. “Embrace your individuality, hone your skills, and never shy away from showcasing your talents. Network, seek mentorship, and remember, continuous learning is key to success,” she said.
