A PolyMET plate for a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell is disclosed. The PolyMET plate includes a body made of a polymeric material and comprise a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The PolyMET plate includes a plurality of in-plane conductive pathways on the first surface defining a reaction area on the first surface, wherein the plurality of in-plane conductive pathways is formed as a coating of conductive material on the first surface. The PolyMET plate also includes a through-plane conductive pathway formed of a solid conductive material extending between the first surface and second surface, such that the through-plane conductive pathway is electrically coupled to the in-plane conductive pathways.