“When I started at Matern, Leah Zeisler and I were the only two women at the firm in technical positions,” said Ashley. “From the start, we had Doug and Ryan’s support and encouragement, and today, I’m proud to say that we have several women on our team.”
While advancements have been made in the field, Ashley believes there is more room for growth for women in the STEAM fields. That’s why she has joined other women leaders to shed more light on mechanical engineering and encourage young girls to learn more about this field.
Recently, Ashley shared her knowledge and time at Hamilton Elementary during an eight-week course, where she and other female leaders within the industry presented various engineering and architecture topics to show that success within the STEAM fields is not only possible but viable. Such early encouragement is important: Ashley relates that during her own college experience, many people tried to discourage her from pursuing an engineering career. Though she took some of that advice at face value, Ashley nonetheless preserved—and works hard to give young women and girls the message early that STEAM careers are indeed for them.
“Stepping into an all-male environment can be intimidating, so I would encourage women in STEAM to be confident in themselves and know what they are capable of learning and doing,” Ashley said. “Also, don’t be afraid to be yourself and speak up! That is one way to earn respect in the field.”
“Ashley is an absolute wonder, not only within our firm but in her excellent work imparting wisdom to the ensuing generations,” said the firm’s President, Ryan Strandquest, Ashley’s longtime mentor through engineering school and in her current role. “As the head of the Mechanical Department for Matern Professional Engineering’s Education Sector, Ashley remains a true leader in the field. She is an inspiration.”
We are very proud of all of Ashley’s accomplishments.