When you think of chemical engineering, do you picture someone in a lab coat mixing chemicals? Jessica Vigneault, a 2006 graduate of the University of Maine Pulp and Paper Foundation (UMPPF), is here to change that perception.
As the operations manager at TimberHP, Jessica is leading the charge in starting up North America’s first wood fiber insulation plant. TimberHP manufactures high-performing, sustainable wood fiber insulation made from renewable resources sourced in Maine’s Northern Forest. This eco-friendly insulation not only reduces heating and cooling costs but also supports sustainable forestry and the local economy.
Jessica’s role involves learning and optimizing new machinery and tailoring product recipes to meet high performance standards. One recent project involved exploring how adjusting the thickness of insulation affects its ease of installation, making it more user-friendly for contractors and boosting their efficiency — an example of how her work blends science with practical business impact.
Jessica admits that when she chose chemical engineering, she didn’t fully understand the field’s breadth. “I did well in math and science, and I was fortunate to have guidance from a parent and teacher,” she shares. Today, she appreciates that chemical engineering allows her to solve meaningful problems. “There’s no flipping to the back of the book for the answer. You have to create solutions and evaluate the best outcome.”
“There’s no flipping to the back of the book for the answer. You have to create solutions and evaluate the best outcome.” — Jessica Vigneault ’06
Her vision for the future of chemical engineering includes real-time data analytics, where process data is continuously analyzed and adjusted, enhancing efficiency and innovation. She envisions a world where advanced computing helps engineers stay ahead, not behind.
Jessica is passionate about dispelling myths around chemical engineering: “It’s not just chemistry — our training is broad, allowing us to work in any process-driven industry.” Reflecting on her journey, she adds, “UMPPF opened my eyes to opportunities I hadn’t fully understood, guiding me toward a rewarding and impactful career in chemical engineering.”
“It’s not just chemistry — our training is broad, allowing us to work in any process-driven industry.” — Jessica Vigneault ’06
For students considering chemical engineering, Jessica’s journey underscores a vital truth: This field offers endless opportunities to innovate, lead, and make a tangible impact — especially in emerging fields like sustainable building materials, where engineering meets environmental responsibility.
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