This week, we were blessed to interview our Customer Service Specialist, Amber Kemper. Amber graciously and knowledgeably handles phone calls and emails every week, as well as serving at various events on campus. She is an incredible member of the team. Please enjoy this interview!
What is your role at Patriot Academy and how long have you been with us?
I work as a Customer Service Specialist for Patriot Academy. This basically means that I am a professional people pleaser!
I first found out about Patriot Academy when my dad signed me up for their National Leadership Congress without even talking to me first. I was absolutely terrified, but loved it so much that I continued to attend for the next two years.
In 2024, I joined Patriot Academy as a part of their inaugural Patriot Institute Scholar program. Once we graduated in August 2025, I was hired onto the team full-time. In January 2026, I officially moved to the beautiful Patriot Academy Campus.
Can you share about your professional background and career path leading to this role?
I have worn many different hats since graduating from high school. I have worked in fast food, data analysis, as an elementary school teacher, and earned my college degree in Elementary Education.
During my time as a Patriot Institute Scholar, I worked with the Customer Service team and was told that I was never allowed to leave. 😂
Each role I’ve had has taught me how to connect with people, solve problems, and communicate clearly — all skills that prepared me perfectly for serving the incredible people at Patriot Academy.
Why is what you do important? What is your mission?
My ultimate mission is to glorify God in everything I do — whether that is answering phone calls/emails, solving problems, or leading a campus tour.
On a practical level, my role is important because I often serve as the first point of contact for people interacting with Patriot Academy. I want every person to feel heard, valued, and supported. If someone walks away from a conversation feeling encouraged, cared for, and confident about their next steps, then I’ve done my job well.
What does Patriot Academy’s mission mean to you?
What I love most about working at Patriot Academy is the people. The community here is truly special. When I was a Patriot Institute Scholar, I unfortunately didn’t experience the in-person environment. After moving to campus, I quickly realized how much of a family Patriot Academy has built. From the scholars to the executive team, there is a culture of encouragement, growth, accountability, and genuine care for one another. It’s a community that challenges you to grow while supporting you every step of the way.
Describe a typical week for you.
As just about every other Staff Highlight has pointed out, no two days are exactly the same. This keeps things exciting and keeps me on my toes!
Most mornings involve handling miscellaneous tasks, leading campus tours, and jumping in wherever help is needed. In the afternoons, I typically respond to emails and phone calls, connecting with fellow patriots and answering questions ranging from simple logistics to big-picture concerns.
When we host events on campus, you can usually find me there helping everything run smoothly.
What is your goal of your team?
The goal of the customer service team is to provide the best customer support interaction you will ever experience. We want you to feel genuinely cared for and not just helped. We want every call answered (or returned quickly), every email responded to, and every interaction to leave someone feeling encouraged and supported. My personal goal is that when you walk away from a conversation with me, you feel taken care of, your questions are answered, and you might even be smiling a little.
What has been a memorable experience during your time with PA?
There have been so many memorable moments during my time at PA, but one of the most unforgettable was traveling with a small team to Delaware to put on our Northeast Leadership Congress. Nearly every flight we had was canceled, we were stranded in multiple airports, and what was supposed to be easy travel somehow turned into a full road trip from Dallas. To summarize: the trip was absolute chaos, an incredible event, and then even more chaos on the way home. This trip really became a full “what else could possibly go wrong?” experience.
Despite all the travel mishaps, our team made the experience so much fun. We laughed through delays, made the best of every unexpected situation, and created memories in just about every airport we passed through. It was a perfect reminder that even when things don’t go according to plan, the people you’re with can make the experience unforgettable.
What would you say to someone interested in doing what you do?
Be genuine. Truly care about the people you interact with and seek to understand where they’re coming from. This role is all about people, not just their problems.
I have the unique privilege of hearing stories and experiences that many others don’t get to hear. While I occasionally encounter a tough customer (maybe twice a year on a dramatic year), the overwhelming majority of people make this work incredibly meaningful and fun.
If you enjoy serving others, solving problems, and making someone’s day a little better, you’ll love being part of this work.
What are your hidden talents? 🙂 What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
I love to bake! I think it is safe to say that anything I bake doesn’t last long on campus and quickly disappears.
I’m also extremely competitive. I love board games and card games. I mostly enjoy the winning aspect, but I guess the fellowship is fun too. 😂
Outside of that, I enjoy spending time outdoors, going for walks, and being with friends and community. Good fellowship and good food are two of my favorite things.
What’s your favorite coffee at the Patriot Brew?
This answer may ruffle some feathers, but I am not a coffee drinker. In fact, I can’t even stand the smell. On days when they’re roasting beans, I admire the coffee shop… from a safe, far distance.
However, I was given a smoothie recently and actually loved it — though I was never told what was in it. So my official recommendation is: mystery smoothie.
What motivates you to do your best work?
People motivate me to do my best work. I have the privilege of connecting with individuals whose stories, experiences, and passion for making a difference are incredibly inspiring. Hearing why people choose to engage with Patriot Academy and take our classes reminds me daily why my work matters and encourages me to serve with excellence.
What is something God has been teaching you this past year?
This past year, God has been teaching me what it truly means to rely fully on Him. There have been many unexpected challenges and “hiccups” in my life this last year. What I sometimes see as interruptions, God sees as part of His perfect plan. He continues to teach me not just to say that I trust Him, but to live it out daily. When difficulties come, I’m learning to trust that God is in control, that He sees the full picture, and that He faithfully takes care of me even when I don’t understand the process. After all, He’s the author of my story.
