At RYAM’s Jesup plant, hard work and hometown pride often run in the family. For Amber Mathis, an Operator III in the Finishing area, that connection spans generations. Her grandmother retired from the same department after decades of service, her uncle is the A-Pulp Mill Maintenance Supervisor, and her cousin works in the storeroom. “It’s kind of a family thing,” Amber said. “I just want to make them proud.”
Amber grew up just minutes from the Jesup facility, where she saw firsthand how RYAM shaped the local economy. “This is a really good job to have,” she said. “You can support your family here, and you don’t have to drive far. RYAM drives our community.” That deep-rooted connection made her decision to join the company feel natural, continuing a proud tradition of service to both family and hometown.
Before joining RYAM a little over a year ago, Amber served in the U.S. Army, specializing in the chemical field—a background that aligns seamlessly with RYAM’s operations. “This plant fits right in with my experience,” she explained. “It’s familiar, and it gives me the opportunity to grow.” Her military service also shaped her confidence and perspective.
While she describes herself as “really girly,” Amber has a natural mechanical aptitude that serves her well in Finishing. “You’ve got to be good with your hands and have the willpower to learn,” she said. “Sometimes you have to do things you never thought you’d do.” That willingness to dive in has carried over to her home life, too. “I’ve upgraded my safety kit,” she laughed. “I have a power drill now—and I can use it!”
When she’s not at work, Amber devotes her time to her daughter. Together they plant gardens, grow their own food, and often use the walking track at RYAM. “I’m in full mom mode,” she said. “After work, I like to bake cookies. It’s the small things.”
For those considering a similar career, Amber’s message is simple: work hard and take pride in what you do. “This job is what you make it,” she said. “If you come in and give your best, it’s rewarding.”
Amber Mathis embodies the spirit of Jesup—resilient, skilled, and proud of her roots. As a third-generation RYAM employee, veteran, and mother, she continues to strengthen the same community that helped shape her family’s legacy.
