Community Highlight: Diversity, Strength, and Domino Effects with Ashley Connell

By: Erin Sheridan | Redwing Ranch Community Series

At Redwing Ranch, our educational workshops are designed to pass on practical, technical skills, from chainsaw operation to grazing math. But the most powerful outcomes often happen after the weekend wraps up: the confidence that carries back to home pastures and the lasting community built along the way.

This month, we are thrilled to feature Ashley Connell, a fifth-generation cattle rancher, custom leatherworker, and Buckin' Babes alumna from north-central Nebraska.

Ashley lives and works full-time on her family’s multi-generational ranch, where no two days look quite the same.

"Ranching consists of taking care of the cattle, land, and everything in between," Ashley shares. "Everything on the ranch runs in seasons, and I love that every day is different and I get to spend so much time outside."

Depending on the season, Ashley’s days shift from breeding replacement heifers and hauling cow/calf pairs to summer grass, to tackling weeks of fencing projects before haying season begins. Like many producers across the West navigating dynamic weather and dry conditions, she keeps a close eye on moisture, grass growth, and land stewardship.

Beyond her daily work on the ranch, Ashley runs a custom leatherworking business on the side and actively gives back to her local community, including frequently working with local FFA chapters to mentor the next generation of agriculturalists.

"I think that getting involved and giving back to the community is one of the most important parts of my stewardship," Ashley says. "These kids are the next generation of agriculturists, and investing in the education of others is one of the most important parts of stewardship."

Before attending Redwing’s Buckin' Babes Chainsaw Workshop, Ashley had never operated a chainsaw. Learning saw mechanics, maintenance, and safe cutting techniques in a supportive environment did more than just add a new tool to her ranch toolkit: it unlocked a new level of personal confidence!

"I hadn't used a chainsaw before Buckin' Babes, and learning that skill not only empowered me to be able to use a saw, but it taught me I can do so much more than I think," Ashley reflects. "That skill gave me the confidence to take on new skills and try things that I didn't think I could do before. It had a domino effect. If I can run a chainsaw, what can't I do?"

When asked about the role women play in agriculture and working lands, Ashley draws a direct parallel to ecological health:

"Women bring diversity to working lands. We bring a fresh set of ideas, skills, and strengths. Just like you don't want a pasture that is a mono-culture of one grass; you don't want an industry that is just one mindset. That diversity creates strength and resilience."

Finding that community of like-minded producers is often the highlight of workshop weekends for women working in rural spaces.

"Honestly, female ranchers are few and far between, so it is so refreshing to chat with other people who understand the struggles and also help you celebrate your successes," Ashley says. "There are a lot of ideas that are passed around and connections made that will more than likely be called upon later. It is encouraging to see other women with similar goals."

Ashley embodies the spirit of stewardship, grit, and continuous learning that defines the Redwing community. Whether she’s breeding heifers, mentoring FFA students, running a saw, or shaping leather in her shop, her perspective reminds us why building diverse, supportive networks in agriculture matters so deeply.

Thank you, Ashley, for being such a vital part of our community and for continuing to inspire land stewards across Nebraska and beyond! 🤠🌱

Want to learn more about our upcoming workshops or get involved with the Redwing community? Check out our  Buckin’ Babes Chainsaw Workshop page or follow along on social media at @redwingranch!