Meet a Staffer: Ashlie Vesper

Name: Ashlie Vesper  
Title: Coordinator, Meetings and Events  
Department: Meetings & Events 
Time at the Association:   Began in November 2022
Email address: ashlie.vesper@autocare.org 
Favorite apps: Spotify, Reddit, Libby 
Words to live by/motto: “The life you have led doesn't need to be the only life you have.” ― Anna Quindlen

How did you get your start at the Auto Care Association?  

I began working at the Auto Care Association after discovering my passion for events (and associations) at my former association management company.

What are your work duties at the association?  

I serve as the main point of contact for inquiries related to event registration and provide onsite support during our events. I assist the meetings and events team, as needed. 

In which department do you work? What are the key responsibilities of the department?  

The meetings and events team aims to create comfortable, engaging environments for our members to convene, connect and learn. The department takes ideas, aspirations and lessons to generate an experience, which is just so cool. 

Where did you go to college? What did you study?  

I graduated from Arcadia University with a bachelor’s  in business administration. Fun fact: The campus has a castle! 

Where else have you worked (what jobs/positions/locations)?  

Right out of college, I began working at FedEx Office and spent three years there, leaving as a store manager. I then spent a year with an oncology association management company as a registration and virtual content coordinator.

Where did you grow up and what are some interesting details about your life before working at the association?  

After moving to the United States from Australia at 18 months old, I grew up in Montgomery County, Md. I’ve worked for a range of employers, including a daycare and trampoline park. 

What is your favorite part about working at the association? What are the biggest rewards?  

My favorite part about working at the Auto Care Association, having only completed three months, is meeting our members. The biggest reward is connecting with them at conferences and hearing about what they’ve gained from attending. This is an opportunity to learn from their experience to understand what we can do to make the next event even better. 

What unique qualities do you feel you bring to the Auto Care Association?  

As someone new to the industry, I feel I may bring a new set of eyes (and lots of questions). 

What are your long-range professional goals for both you and the Auto Care Association?  

I hope to continue to grow within the meetings and events space and learn how to better provide for our members. I hope to one day plan an Auto Care event myself! 

What do you feel are the biggest rewards of working in the auto care industry? 

There are millions of people employed in the industry and millions of vehicle owners. It is extremely rewarding knowing that this association strives to improve the lives of each one. 

Tell us about your life outside of work (family, hobbies, home, etc.).  

I spend most of my time at home with a cat sitting in my lap. Otherwise, I’m found baking something, playing with mud (I make pottery), or planning my next trip. 

Tell us a few fun facts about you that would surprise people (special skills, awards, accomplishments, etc.).  

I’m an avid traveler and have visited 11 countries, hiked in five national parks and slept in three airports. My favorite vacation accommodation is a van (I promise, it’s not that bad).