Job history: Ashley joined the Railway Supply Institute (RSI) in 2023 as senior director of government and public affairs. She advanced to the role of vice president, government affairs and as of February 2026 has been acting president of the association.

Why she's influential as a leader: Since joining RSI, Ashley has helped keep the rail supply sector top of mind on Capitol Hill. In 2025, she ensured inclusion of provisions supporting the railway supply sector in H.R. 1, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

Thanks to her efforts, RSI was invited for the first time to testify at a hearing on rail innovation held by the U.S. House Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines and Hazardous Materials. She and the RSI government affairs team that she leads have briefed members of the House and Senate transportation committees on the industry's priorities for the upcoming surface transportation reauthorization legislation. Ashley also helped RSI members secure the introduction of a Senate companion bill to the House's Freight RAILCAR Act.

Ashley has helped raise RSI's profile on the Hill by developing close connections with top leadership at the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Federal Railroad Administration, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration and Surface Transportation Board.