Influential Woman · Medical Device Importation
Ashley Valdes
Operations Manager, Dawa Medical, LLC
Miami, FL 33126
From operations director to policy anthropology, I learned to apply systems-thinking skills to autism services after recognizing structural gaps as a mother of twins.
Ashley Valdes · In Her Own Words
Her Story
About Ashley
Ashley Valdes is the Operations and Logistics Director at Dawa Medical LLC, where she plays a pivotal role in supporting the U.S. introduction of global medical devices through FDA regulatory compliance, initial importation, warehousing, and distribution. With nearly a decade of combined experience in healthcare, logistics, and clinical operations, Ashley brings a sharp strategic mind and a compassionate heart to every project she touches. A graduate of Florida International University with a Bachelor's in Health Services Administration, Ashley also holds certifications in Medical and Clinical Assisting from CBT College. Currently advancing her education in Anthropology and Political Science at Florida Atlantic University, she pairs academic insight with on-the-ground industry leadership. She is also an independent distributor for Super Patch and maintains an online platform at www.officialtwinmaker.com. Beyond her professional expertise, Ashley is a dedicated mom to two sets of twins, and an autism advocate, drawing from personal experience with her children to amplify awareness and support federal initiatives like the Autism CARES Act. Her passion will continue with the launch of the Twinmaker Research & Media Collective in 2026, dedicated to autism services research, caregiver collaboration, and evidence-based legislative action. When she's not navigating compliance pathways or building bridges between international manufacturers and the U.S. market, Ashley finds joy in music, gardening, and reading self-help books—always striving for growth, both personally and professionally.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Ashley
01What do you attribute your success to?
My success stems from everything I’ve learned, and continue to learn, every day as a mother; patience, dedication, growth, understanding, and perseverance.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Don't stop looking until you've found what truly drives you.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge in the field right now are the added tariffs on imported goods, including medical devices. The cost to import into the U.S. has risen so much that it is becoming difficult for doctors and hospitals (for example) to continue purchasing much needed devices and supplies for medical care at decent prices, including supplies for emergency surgeries. However, this may provide opportunities for international manufacturers to hold inventories within the U.S. so as to reduce the constant tariffs, and in turn, increase the need for warehousing and distribution services here at home.
Keep Exploring
More Influential Women · Florida
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.