I have known Ashlee Lundvall for a decade, when I first met her at the Wyoming Women’s Antelope Hunt in 2015. Since then, we have spent more time together – including a lovely Fourth of July celebration in her hometown of Cody, Wyoming.
Ashlee brings years of experience as an advocate for the outdoors to her present-day service as a Wyoming Wildlife and Game commissioner. Before that, in 2013, she won the Ms. Wheelchair USA competition, where again, her platform included the outdoors. Ashlee, who suffered a paralyzing accident as a teenager, knows firsthand about what life is like when there are such debilitating challenges. In fact, she even wrote a book, “A Redefined Life: Lessons From A Pitchfork,” detailing her comeback — from the hospital bed to the track chair.
Ashlee Lundvall lives in Cody, Wyoming, with her husband and daughter. Throughout the years, she has contributed several posts and reviews to The WON, and we are delighted to feature her in this series of outstanding women in the outdoors. ~BB
Describe a typical day in your work life.
My days currently revolve around education. I carpool my daughter and several other students into Veritas Academy in Cody, Wyoming, where I am the Head of School. Depending on the day, I may be moderating a debate on gun control, instructing a culinary arts demonstration on preparing wild game, or scheduling a hunter’s education class to teach my students in the spring. On Friday afternoons, you will find the freshmen class shooting their bows at a homemade target in our barn. Over Christmas break, I was elk hunting with a friend from my church community group. I am always fielding calls and emails with my role as a Wyoming Game and Fish Commissioner. I’ve found a love for filming with our show, “Able Outdoors.” I love education, and I am privileged to work in an area where I can combine my passion for the outdoors into nearly every aspect of my daily life.
#1 piece of advice you would give other females who want to break into the industry?
Don’t wait for your “big” opportunity- create it! I talk to a lot of women who want to know what they should “change” in order to be a part of this industry. You shouldn’t have to change anything; your passion and lifestyle should already revolve around the outdoors and conservation and hunting and firearms. You should be sharing your knowledge with other women and looking for opportunities to get kids outdoors. Keep taking every opportunity you get, and someone will notice.
What motivates you?
I am motivated by the idea of leaving this lifestyle to the next generation. I want them to understand the importance of preserving this treasure we’ve been gifted. I hope they have life-changing moments in nature. I want them to learn character and conservation and stewardship. That’s why I do what I do – I don’t want to waste it.
Most unexpected thing you’ve learned, while working in this industry?
You can get paid to do what you love! I feel incredibly fortunate to be blessed with the opportunities I’ve been given. I love going to work, I love mentoring other women and youth and I love supporting conservation efforts. Life doesn’t get much better.
I am loving the Outrider Coyote right now – such a great piece of adaptive equipment! This makes access a possibility for people with many types of disabilities.
Let’s have some fun … what weapon would you use to battle a giant?
Last year I picked up a flamethrower because, why not? Definitely battle worthy.
Find out more about “Able Outdoors.”
Visit Ashlee Lundvall’s website.
Publisher/Editor Barbara Baird is a freelance writer in hunting, shooting and outdoor markets. Her bylines are found at several top hunting and shooting publications. She also is a travel writer, and you can follow her at https://www.ozarkian.com. View all posts by Barbara Baird
