Looking for inspiration to begin a career in STEM? Look no further! Dr Linda Pfeiffer is the perfect role model.
Linda has a range of teaching experiences across all levels of education and works with industry, community groups and local schools to improve STEM outcomes.
Linda is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Education and the Arts, CQUniversity, based at the Gladstone Marina campus.
In 2016, she took out the 2016 Queensland Women in STEM Prize for her work with schools on science education and engagement events.
Dr Linda Pfeiffer
Tell us about the new Australia Pacific LNG STEM Central facility in Gladstone?
I was instrumental in setting up a new facility in Gladstone for all things STEM-related. The new Australia pacific LNG STEM central facility opened in August last year. It has been used by local teachers to help them embed STEM into the classroom, as well as community groups to help them understand and engage in STEM.
The new facility hosted a Seniors Week event, where senior groups enjoyed a tour around the facility and got to experience some of the activities. The activities included drones, lego robotics, ozobots, electronic circuits, mathematics games, 3D printer and holograms. It has also hosted the Conoco Phillips Science experience in October last year, a three day event where 85 students from years 9 and 10 participate in hands-on science.
What’s your favourite thing about teaching STEM?
I love inspiring people to realise that science and solving problems are a part of everyday life. Science is interesting and exciting and should not be viewed as hard or scary. Applying science to real-world contexts in a creative way is my favourite part of teaching STEM.
What has been your career highlight?
Winning the 2016 Queensland Women in STEM Prize was amazing. I would also have to say graduating with my Doctor of Science Education in 2013 was also a huge highlight. Finally (if I can have three) opening the Australia Pacific LNG STEM Central facility with so many wonderful supporters. It was very surreal seeing the facility come to fruition after two years of planning.
What are you currently working on?
I am preparing to visit Canberra for a STEM showcase in March, and I am currently working on two books — both about STEM education in primary classrooms.
What do you say to young girls thinking about studying STEM?
STEM careers are very rewarding and you have the opportunity to make big impacts on the world. There should not be any barriers to studying STEM, including gender. Get out there and show the world what you can do!
