Ashley Ellison: A Top Woman to Watch in Transportation

Ashley Ellison, VP of Dedicated Operations, is a 2025 Top Woman to Watch in Transportation. Discover her inspiring journey in trucking, leadership, and advocacy for women in logistics.

By: Caitlin Heiden 

Ashley’s Journey: Finding a Career in Transportation

Meet Ashley Ellison, VP of Dedicated Operations and recently named a Top Woman to Watch in Transportation by Women in Trucking.  Ashley’s journey in transportation began 20 years ago when she left her customer service career. She was looking for a new challenge, and the transportation industry provided one.

In 2005, Ashley joined the U.S. Xpress direct division, tracking freight. It was a busy time in the trucking industry, hauling much-needed freight for FEMA following Hurricane Katrina’s devastation in New Orleans. Ashley thrived in the fast-paced environment and enjoyed the challenges. The transportation bug had bitten her, and she was all in.

Ashley has always been a go-getter with endless drive. As a competitive dancer growing up, she understood dedication and hard work. She set her mind to something, and she made it happen. She moved into her first driver-facing role, a whole new challenge, in 2019 when she joined our dedicated division.

This was a true turning point in her career. There was a steep learning curve, but she wasn’t scared off. She developed relationships with drivers and got to know them and their needs. She acted as an advocate for many, giving support to drivers and helping them to be successful on the road. She also made it her mission to educate non-drivers on the role they play and how they can impact a driver’s success. The new position challenged her greatly, but she thrived.

Overcoming Challenges while Leading

Ashley faced an unexpected challenge when in 2020, she was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer. Despite overwhelming uncertainty, she dove into treatment, all the while dedicated to her work. The experience reshaped her leadership approach and reinforced the importance of personal well-being. “You have to be healthy to effectively lead a team, so I got healthy,” said Ellison. “In order to give my best, I needed to feel my best, too.”

These challenges only made her stronger. Finally in remission, Ashley wanted to give back and find ways to support women in similar situations. She became involved with the Susan G. Komen foundation, participating in local events, fundraising, and advocacy for breast cancer.

Ashley also helped start the Women in the Workplace ERG at U.S. Xpress as a way to support and mentor other women in transportation, a historically male-dominated industry. The group helps women at U.S. Xpress develop their skills through discussion, mentorship, and collaboration. “Women CAN do anything in this industry,” Ashley stated. “All they need is someone to show them that.”

Breaking Barriers as a Woman in Trucking

Women have an incredible opportunity in trucking right now. Making up just 9.5% of professional drivers, according to the 2024 WIT Index, women in transportation careers remain an untapped asset that Ashley is eager to help change.

“I’ve always demanded a seat at the table”, said Ashley. “More women are beginning to do the same and taking on these male-dominated roles and becoming successful at them. It’s an exciting time.” As someone who once struggled with impostor syndrome, Ashley believes confidence is key for women in transportation. Finding her voice and not being afraid to speak up helped her get where she is today.

Being named a 2025 Top Woman to Watch in Transportation validates the last twenty years of hard work for Ashley. “It’s a huge honor to be recognized by leadership and know they see the value I bring to the industry and U.S. Xpress,” she shared.

The Road Ahead: What’s Next for this Transportation Industry Leader

The well-deserved Women in Trucking Association (WIT) recognition only motivates her further. She plans to continue learning as much as she can to be the best leader for her team. Ashley’s commitment to growth fuels her daily. She jokes that maybe one day she will even come for her boss, Clayton’s job!

Ashley’s journey proves what’s possible with resilience and drive. Her unwavering commitment to growth and empowerment makes her a powerhouse in transportation and a well-deserving Top Woman to Watch in Transportation.

Are you a woman looking to find a career in transportation or take the next step in leadership? Explore opportunities with U.S. Xpress today and join a growing network of women shaping the future of transportation.