Ashley Commander, 29
Principal Engineer in Bulk Planning, TVA; 2019 Chair, IEEE Power & Energy Society Chattanooga; Lead, TVA’s Transmission Planning STEM summer program (2017-2019); 2019 recipient, General Robert Neyland Young Engineer of the Year Award; 2017 Young Engineer of the Year, IEEE Power & Energy Society Chattanooga; Volunteer, Human Animal Bond in TN (Northside Neighborhood House after-school program); B.S. in Electrical Engineering
Who’s your favorite “Game of Thrones” character?
Sansa Stark. Throughout the show, she grew from being a naïve child to a strong woman leader.
Which GOT character do you think you would be?
I would like to think Sansa, but if I am being honest, I would fit in much better in Highgarden than Winterfell. Therefore, I would have to say Margaery Tyrell.
Who would you have put on the Iron Throne?
I didn’t expect it, but after the fact, I believe that Bran was a good choice. His motives will be less emotionally driven and more fact-based.
Last book you read and/or show you binge-watched?
Book: “Bad Blood” by John Carreyrou, about the Theranos Silicon Valley startup scandal. TV show: “Dead to Me” on Netflix. (It was alright. I was stuck on a plane.)
If you ruled the world (or Chattanooga), what would you change?
To keep from getting too political, I would say shorter workweeks and Fridays off.
Who would be on your advisory council?
Amal Clooney, because she is one of my biggest role models. She proves it is possible to be smart, fabulous, successful and feminine. Next, Amy Poehler. Her Amy Poehler’s Smart Girls organization is very inspiring for young (and young at heart) women. Lastly, Michelle Obama. Her emphasis on health and wellness as FLOTUS was impactful.
Is ruler a position you’d even want?
I mean, I wouldn’t turn it down. I feel that the key to being a good ruler is having a good team. Checks and balances are necessary. Therefore, that would be a top priority for my campaign.
What drives you professionally and/or personally?
Both professionally and personally, I feel the pull to keep moving. I love learning new things and being challenged.
What’s one thing you’d really like to accomplish?
Has that goal changed over the years? I would like to travel more. This has always been a goal of mine. I love experiencing new places and eating new things.