In just two years at RYAM’s Fernandina Plant, Nate Pudner has become a key contributor to operational excellence and process improvement. After spending 18 months as a Process Control Engineer, he recently transitioned into his current role as Utilities Process Engineer, where he provides critical technical support for one of the mill’s most essential operating areas.
What Nate enjoys most about his role is the variety.
“No two days are ever the same,” he says. “I might be troubleshooting an operational issue, analyzing a potential project, coordinating a cross-functional effort, or supporting a continuous improvement initiative. Every day presents a new challenge and an opportunity to make an impact.”
As the dedicated process engineer supporting utilities, Nate plays an important role in helping operations run safely, efficiently, and reliably. He enjoys working directly with operations teams to solve problems, improve performance, and optimize processes.
“My favorite part of the job is supporting operations,” Nate explains. “I enjoy being out in the field, working with the team, and helping overcome challenges that affect runnability and optimization.”
One of the most rewarding aspects of Nate’s role is helping turn promising ideas into practical solutions. A recent example is a methanol condenser optimization project in the recovery area. Long recognized for its potential to improve chemical recovery and increase mill efficiency, the project remained largely conceptual for several years.
Working alongside a cross-functional team, Nate helped evaluate the opportunity, establish proof of concept, and develop a path toward implementation.
“We knew the project had significant potential,” says Nate. “Being part of the effort to take it from a good idea on paper to something that is now being installed and will deliver real benefits to the mill is something I’m very proud of.”
The project highlights the value of collaboration, technical analysis, and innovative thinking—qualities that Nate brings to his work every day.
Nate’s interest in engineering began with a passion for STEM subjects, particularly chemistry. After spending two years as a graduate research assistant, he was drawn to the challenges and opportunities of working in large-scale industrial processes.
Since joining RYAM, he has gained experience across multiple roles and disciplines, helping him grow from a new engineer with primarily theoretical knowledge into a well-rounded professional with practical expertise across several areas of mill operations.
A major source of motivation for Nate is seeing the direct impact of his work.
“Whether it’s troubleshooting a problem and immediately seeing an improvement or helping implement a larger project that delivers long-term benefits, there are always measurable results,” he says. “It’s rewarding to know the work you’re doing is making a difference.”
Looking ahead, Nate hopes to become even more involved on the operations side of utilities, where he can continue working closely with shift crews and support teams to solve real-time challenges and support mill performance.
Outside of work, Nate enjoys staying active through soccer, running, and strength training. He also plays guitar and likes exploring different parts of Amelia Island. And if there’s one thing colleagues may not know about him, it’s that he grew up in a family of nine children, with eight brothers and sisters.
Whether he’s supporting operations in the field, solving complex technical challenges, or helping bring innovative projects to life, Nate’s commitment to continuous improvement is helping strengthen performance across the Fernandina Plant every day.
