A founding member of The Source Advisory Panel, Ashley Wicks spends her work days delving into topics most of us wouldn’t dare approach or try to understand. Ashley is an attorney at Butler Snow and focuses her practice on Public Finance, State and Local Taxation, Tax Credits, and Tax.
She inspires all of us with her relentless hard work and commitment to her community. There’s so much we can all learn from her experience and work ethic.
What was your college major? Do you use it in your current career?
AW: I was an accounting major, and I do use it to some extent since one of my practice areas is taxation. I actually use it more in my civic and community involvement since I always seem to get slated to serve as treasurer.
What was your first job? What did you learn from it?
AW: My first job was working as a cashier at Kroger. I learned I did not want to work for minimum wage again. It amazed me that you could work a whole hour and not be able to afford a combo at Krystal across the street. I didn’t understand how people could support a family on minimum wage.
What’s the best professional advice you’ve ever received?
AW: Be yourself. We often try to be or act like someone else because it is working for them, but we don’t realize that there is value in being who you are.
What advice do you wish you could go back and give yourself 10 years ago?
AW: I would tell myself to live in the moment. Sometimes I am so focused on the next achievement or goal that I don’t take time to live in the moment. I would also tell myself to take more time to do something for myself when I get the opportunity to travel for work.
What’s your proudest moment of your career?
AW: I have had several proud moments in my career, such as being the Magnolia Bar Association President and a top finalist for the Mississippi Business Journal Top 50 under 40, but I do not think I’ve reached my proudest moment yet.
What’s your favorite item in your office? Tell us the story behind it.
AW: My headphones – music has a substantial effect on me. It calms me, energizes me, and motivates me. I like my headphone because it allows me to listen to exactly what I need at that particular moment.
Why did you agree to be a founding Advisory Panel Member for The Source?
AW: I thought it was an awesome idea. I also have a fascination with entrepreneurship, and I try to do what I can to support it.
Ashley is an incredible asset to The Source Advisory Panel and a resource for our growing network of women. We hope each of our members gets to know her better and draws from her experience and advice.
