Nixon Santiago, Senior Maintenance Mechanical Planner – Fernandina Beach
For nearly two decades, Nixon Santiago has been a familiar and trusted face at RYAM’s Fernandina Beach facility. As a Senior Maintenance Mechanical Planner, he plays a key role in keeping plant operations running smoothly — from developing maintenance schedules to coordinating with mechanics, electricians, and pipefitters to ensure everything stays on track.
From Puerto Rico to Fernandina
Nixon’s story begins far from Fernandina Beach. Originally from Puerto Rico, he grew up with a strong work ethic and a love for fixing things — traits that would define his career. Before joining RYAM, Nixon gained technical experience in industrial and electrical work, building the foundation that prepared him for the challenges of the plant environment.
When he joined RYAM 18 years ago, Nixon started as a plant electrician, rotating through different departments to understand the plant from the ground up. Over time, he expanded his skills — learning instrumentation, welding, carpentry, and machining — and became known for his willingness to take on new challenges. “I’ve always believed that the more you learn, the more valuable you become to the team,” he says.
His persistence paid off. When an opening came up for a planning role, Nixon volunteered even though he had never done the job before. “They told me it would be a two-month trial. Six months later, I realized I was still doing the job — turns out they’d already decided I was their planner,” he recalls with a smile.
Keeping the Plant Moving
Each day brings something new for Nixon. He starts his mornings checking in with the central maintenance shop, collaborating with millwrights, machinists, and pipefitters to get a full picture of the day’s work. “I like to talk things through with the team before our daily planning meeting,” he says. “That way, if there are issues, I already have answers.”
From planning for the next two weeks to preparing for large-scale outages, Nixon thrives on solving problems and staying a step ahead. “It’s challenging, but I couldn’t have a job that was too easy — I’d be bored,” he admits. “I like to troubleshoot.”
Character, Community, and Pride
Outside of work, Nixon is known for his community spirit. Whether participating in charity fundraisers, volunteering for events, or lending a hand wherever needed, he’s never afraid to step up — or even laugh at himself — if it helps bring people together.
“I’m an open book,” he says. “Everything you do in life shapes you. You must be proud of your accomplishments — and prouder of your mistakes — because they make you who you are.”
That philosophy, paired with his commitment to learning and teamwork, makes Nixon not just a skilled planner, but a valued part of the RYAM family. His journey from Puerto Rico to Fernandina Beach reflects the spirit of growth, dedication, and pride that defines RYAM’s people.
