Stephen M. Tomecek (a.k.a. "The Dirtmeister ") is the Executive Director and founder of Science Plus, Inc. Steve began his professional career as a geologist (yes, he's a real scientist!). The title "Dirtmeister" was hung on him over 20 years ago by his students at the New York Botanical Gardens where he taught courses in soil science. He served as the Associate Director for the Science Museum of Long Island and as the Science Program Supervisor for the New York Hall of Science. He currently serves as a writer and science consultant for the National Geographic Society, Scholastic, Inc, and Chelsea House. In the past he has written and has helped to develop web sites for Discovery Communications, the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, and Los Alamos Labs. Steve has written over 45 nonfiction books for both teachers and kids.