Biography
Amber Sewell's path to public service is rooted in family, community, and a quiet conviction that small things — done well — change lives.
Amber began her life's work in the U.S. Army, where she learned the value of discipline, accountability, and service. Her time in the military included a tour in Iraq as a logistics operator for a Special Forces unit on the front lines — an experience that shaped her composure under pressure and her commitment to the people counting on her.
After her military service, Amber joined the Island County Juvenile Detention Center, beginning what became an 18-year career with the County. During that time she earned her bachelor's degree and was promoted to Detention Manager — a role that demanded strong leadership, clear communication, and the ability to support both staff and youth in a challenging environment.
While working full-time for the County, Amber built a successful cleaning service company from the ground up. As the business grew, she left county employment to focus on expanding it. The experience sharpened her skills in management, interpersonal communication, problem solving, and long-term planning — and gave her a broader perspective on how public and private systems can work together to serve a community.
Amber is running for Island County Clerk because she has a genuine passion for the court system and wants to build a long-term career where she can continue to grow her knowledge and skills while serving the community. She has the full-time backing of former County Clerk Debra Van Pelt, who has offered to train her in all aspects of the job — ensuring a seamless and relatively stress-free leadership transition for both the staff and the public in the Clerk's office.
The county deserves dependable leadership and strong operational systems that support the courts and the residents every day. As the next Island County Clerk, Amber will strengthen internal operations and promote a workplace culture grounded in clear communication and respectful conflict resolution. If elected, she will ensure that every resident is treated fairly, professionally, and with the meticulous care they deserve.