Mathew Chakola grew up in Kerala in southern India. His role model was his charismatic father, Devassy Chakola, whose business acumen, integrity, and leadership skills influenced him deeply, as did his mother's unquestioning faith in God.

Chakola has a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Kerala (India) and a Master's in Engineering Mechanics from Widener University (USA). Over the years, he has used his expertise in plant and machine design and engineering to assist several large corporations in their manufacturing and corporate ventures.

Chess champion, gourmet cook, raconteur, bibliophile- these are only some of the hats Mathew Chakola wears. His passion, however, is paper, and he has perfected a process for recycling paper that is environmentally friendly and energy efficient. Chakola is currently the owner and CEO of the multimillion-dollar Maryland Paper Company, Alabama Paper Products and California Paper. He is one of the biggest producers of roofing felt from recycled paper, and his clients are spread across the USA and Canada.

He and his wife Sally live in Frederick County, Maryland, and have three children.