Ashley Posthumus

Ashley Posthumus holds a master’s degree in urban and regional planning with a focus on economic development from Virginia Tech and a B.S. in human geography and environmental science from the University of McMaster in Ontario, Canada. With over four years of experience as an economic development specialist, Ashley has played a key role in supporting the growth of the biotechnology sector in Region 2 through her leadership in grant management for federal U.S. Economic Development Administration and state GO Virginia grants. Her expertise also encompasses advancing child care solutions in rural Southwest Virginia, developing substance abuse support strategies in far Southwest Virginia, and assessing workforce and talent development impacts.

Previously, Ashley served as a graduate research assistant and research associate at the Virginia Tech Center for Economic and Community Engagement (CECE), contributing to high-impact projects such as the Mount Rogers Outdoor Recreation and Marketing Plan, West Piedmont Agritourism Economic Impact Report, and New River Mount Rogers Workforce Development Board Quarterly Workforce Reports. Recognized for her strong analytical capabilities and strategic insight, Ashley remains a valued member of CECE’s dynamic team, known for her meticulous attention to detail and commitment to impactful economic development work.

In her free time, Ashley enjoys spending quality time with her family, gardening, and discovering new restaurants with friends.