Powered by Woman, Preserving Trees: "That Girl" Tree Cares Mission
Hi, I'm Ashley- the driving force behind "That Girl" Tree Care.
At 39, I've spent nearly two decades in the tree care industry, with roots that stretch back to the lush landscapes near Des Moines, Iowa. My outdoor career began in the forestry department at Polk County Conservation, where I gained hands-on experience and developed a deep respect for trees and the natural world. That experience led me to earn a degree in Parks and Natural Resources, which opened the door to a wide variety of roles in the tree care field. Eventually, my husband and I planted roots in Cedar Rapids- and we've been growing here ever since.
Tree Care Career Evolution
Here in Cedar Rapids, my journey in the tree care industry has taken me through a wide range of roles — from running ground operations to coordinating complex crane removals. I've managed a small tree service branch for a large company and earned my certification as an Arborist along the way. But one of the most transformative moments in my life didn’t happen on the job — it happened on the trail. Stepping far outside my comfort zone, My husband and I hiked 2,650 miles along the Pacific Crest Trail, from Mexico to Canada. That six-month journey reshaped how I see the world, deepened my connection to nature, and ultimately brought me back to this work with a renewed sense of purpose."
Passion for Tree Conservation
After the Derecho destroyed 70% of Cedar Rapids' canopy- and during my Pacific Crest Trail hike, where I saw the toll of wildfires and drought across the West- the urgency of tree conservation became deeply personal. That realization is what ultimately inspired me to launch "That Girl" Tree Care. With 20 years of experience in the industry, my mission is fueled by a passion to preserve: to save trees whenever possible, prioritize thoughtful care over quick removals, prune for long-term strength and resilience, and empower clients with knowledge to make informed, confident decisions about their trees.
Empowering Women in Tree Care
Thriving as a woman in a male-dominated field, "That Girl" Tree Care was founded with the mission to empower women in arboriculture. We're committed to fostering a work environment that's not just safe, but supportive and joyful. We're proud to be building a community that challenges outdated norms, celebrates diversity, and shows what's possible when women lead in tree care.
Behind the Name
The name "That Girl" came naturally- because that's what people kept calling me. Over the years, working as one of the few women in the local tree care scene, I'd often hear things like, "Are you that girl who climbed the big oak on 5th Street?" or "Weren't you that girl from [X company]?" It became a running theme. Even now, as a business owner, I still hear clients say, "We were looking for that girl who worked on our trees years ago." The name stuck- because it tells my story. It's about being remembered, doing good work, and proving there's a place for woman in this industry.
The Acorn Symbolism
A lot of people have asked, "Why the acorn?" This is the most important symbol to me—Acorns are a powerful representation of resilience and potential. Acorns, with their unassuming nature, signify fertility, growth, and the promise of a fresh start. Just as a tiny acorn can give rise to a mighty oak tree, "That Girl" embodies the belief that even in a male-dominated industry, women have untapped potential for growth and prosperity in the industry.
Call 319-899-5311 to schedule your personalized tree consultation today.
