Developing technology and digital solutions to help the Queensland Police Service

During her time at Girls Grammar, Ashley embraced digital technology classes but also took advantage of the wide variety of sports on offer, particularly Tennis and Football.

‘At BGGS I was empowered to follow my love for Sport and Technology. This meant that when I moved to London, I followed my dream in the bustling IT industry whilst making lifelong friends through Touch Football and Rugby. Now, inspired by my time at Grammar, I have my own company, encouraging and mentoring young girls and women to pursue opportunities in STEM and Sport,’ Ashley said.

Ashley moved to London with no job and no real plan, just three days after graduating with a double degree of Bachelor of IT and Bachelor of Creative Studies at QUT with First Class Honours.

There in London she saw a role advertised for a UX Designer at Burberry which piqued her interest, and she submitted an application. Unfortunately, the job had been filled the day before, but Ashley’s experience stood out and Burberry offered her the role of Agile Project Manager.

‘At Burberry, I worked with a team of developers, designers, testers, and marketing specialists based in London, Los Angeles and Belarus,’ Ashley said.

‘We delivered a lot of different projects, including apps where customers could virtually try on different accessories in various colours and make purchases direct from the website. We also collaborated on a project for the runway shows that enabled VIPs attending the show to have the Burberry app populated with the runway fashion as the models were walking down the catwalk, allowing customers to purchase items while attending the show.’

In 2020, Ashley returned to Brisbane and started working for a start-up—a small company allowing her to wear many different hats—product manager, business development, events, and project management.

‘This role enabled me to develop a wide range of skills and gave me an insight into the start-up world as well as helped me create a strong professional network in Brisbane.’

Ashley is currently leading a team of 30 at the Queensland Police Service developing technology and digital solutions to help police officers capture information seamlessly when out on the beat.

The vast application of the skills Ashley has gained has led to a wide-ranging and exciting career.

‘Design, technology and digital is a universal language that allows you to work in many different industries and take lots of career pathways. The landscape is vast and ever evolving and you never get bored!

‘I get to work with amazing people and change lives every day. Even 15 years after graduating, BGGS continues to support and encourage me on my journey. I wouldn’t be where I am today without my IT Teachers, Mr. Skillen and Mr. Thomas. I’m incredibly proud to be a Grammar Girl.’