Her Story
About Ashley
I've spent 14 years in the construction equipment industry at Caterpillar, and it's been an incredible journey. Being a woman in a male-dominated field has had its challenges, but I've had so many great opportunities and I've surprised myself with what I've been able to accomplish. When I first started, I actually asked my friend 'do I want to be a tractor girl?' - I was just meant to get some experience. But then I was thrown into different opportunities that I really enjoyed and didn't think I would, and I showed some talents I didn't know I had. Now I'm an S&OP Solution Leader, and I own the S&OP process for Caterpillar Machines. My job is to transform that process - I work with different groups within the company to make sure we're aligned and implement a new process so we can have a streamlined process for our customers to order machines and grow the business. What I love most about my career is that I've had so many different types of roles, from planning to operations. I get to work with all different types of groups - I'm not just in supply chain, I work with finance, operations, and all different types of machines. Really, working with the people is my favorite part.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Ashley
01What do you attribute your success to?
I would say two things. There's a personal side - I have a great support system. My parents have been great influences, and then my husband is my number one cheerleader. So having that great support system to pick me up on my days that I don't feel my best. And then on the professional side, keep always learning, being eager to learn, to ask questions, and make improvements where I see fit.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
I would say don't listen to imposter syndrome, that you have, you got this, you believe in what got you to where you're at, and be your authentic self. That's the best way to do the best in your role.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would say be authentic to yourself. Just because maybe not everybody looks or leads the same way that you do doesn't mean that it's wrong. The best and the most that you can give to yourself and the company is to be true to yourself, and continue to ask the tough questions.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I think that the biggest challenge is that things are changing very fast, especially with AI and digital tools. So keeping up with those changes and learning and adapting all of our processes to match as quickly as the market is changing. Tariffs have also been an issue for our company.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I think being true to yourself, and then never stop learning. To keep asking questions, and to keep learning and growing, be open to new opportunities, to new adventures.
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