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Ashley Wilhelm
Director, Initiatives
Ashley Wilhelm joined CAEL in January 2022. As director of initiatives, she manages CAEL’s workforce & economic development projects focused on data analysis, targeted industry pathway development, and national/regional stakeholder engagement that maximize client impact for adult learners. Wilhelm has a wealth of experience and an extensive network in both workforce and economic development as well as in postsecondary education.
Wilhelm most recently was a program manager at the Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity, driving the state's economic development and workforce initiatives in partnership with national, state, and local associations, government officials, and businesses. Prior to that, she served on the Maricopa County Workforce Development Board for over two years as a project manager leading high-profile initiatives, tracking program and partner success, and managing stakeholder engagement and communications. She also is a former project manager with Oregon Commissioners in Union County, supporting projects and engagement across state, and local government agencies focused on efforts in the areas of community development, grant administration, and public policy.
Wilhelm earned her bachelor’s degree from Eastern Oregon University and holds a master’s of public administration (MPA) from Grand Canyon University.

Areas of Expertise
Ashley has extensive experience in strategic planning, public policy, industry sector projects, community outreach and business engagement.