Meet Amber
Amber Richards is a recognized leader and certified coach dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to reach their full potential. Her diverse career and life experiences have instilled in her the grit, grace, and wisdom that inform her work today.
She founded Gather & Grow in 2024 to help others navigate the difficult terrain of life and business. Through coaching, leadership development, and organizational consulting, she helps individuals and organizations build strong foundations, navigate challenges, and maximize their impact.
Amber's journey began in small-town America, where a strong work ethic and a deep love for the outdoors took root. This foundation led her to the Air Force, where as a Survival, Evasion, Resistance & Escape (SERE) Specialist, she honed her leadership skills training elite military personnel. This transformative experience pushed her beyond perceived limits, teaching her self-reliance, leadership, and the enduring power of adaptability—lessons that became the bedrock of her life. Transitioning to the private sector broadened her experience across diverse industries, from startups to global enterprises.
Driven by a profound desire to serve, Amber returned to public service, excelling in local government and non-profit roles. Her expertise spans operations, human resources, emergency management, and community building, culminating in cabinet and C-level leadership positions.
A lifelong learner, Amber holds a Master's in Public Administration, a graduate certificate in Emergency Management Executive Leadership, a SHRM-SCP certification, and a Life Coach certificate. She has attended numerous leadership programs, including the Senior Executive Institute at the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service and Leadership ICMA, in addition to receiving distinguished graduate awards in Airman Leadership School and the SERE training program.
Discover more about Amber's career journey on her LinkedIn profile.