Women in Cannabis: Featuring Ashley Morton
March is Women's History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the achievements and contributions of women throughout history. We will be highlighting a few of the women that have helped grow March and Ash, sharing their unique experiences and stories working in the cannabis industry. Let us introduce you to Ashley Morton, Human Resources Recruiting and Onboarding Manager at March and Ash. Written by Randy Villarba
In the month of March we celebrate Women's History Month. We take this time to acknowledge and honor the accomplishments and contributions of women in the United States. In the realm of cannabis business, women are making remarkable progress by shattering obstacles, revolutionizing the industry's landscape, and forging the path for others to follow.
More women are stepping up to various leadership roles as recreational cannabis continues to blossom. Some women are even launching their own ventures. Female leadership is promoting parity, social equity and justice for men and women within cannabis companies.
Through this feature series, we aim to showcase some of the women who have played a pivotal role in the development of March and Ash, sharing their unique experiences and stories working in the cannabis industry. Let us introduce you to Ashley Morton, Human Resources Recruiting and Onboarding Manager at March and Ash.
Tell us about your story of how you started working in the cannabis market?
When I was looking for a new opportunity in human resources, cannabis was not on my radar. I had a friend who already worked for March and Ash and told me that cannabis was an up and coming industry. I had never thought about working in cannabis and never even stepped foot in a dispensary until my interview. So far it has almost been three years and I am lucky for this opportunity to expand my knowledge in the cannabis industry.
What tips do you have for women who want to pursue a career in the cannabis industry, and what can they do to set themselves up for success?
From a Human Resources standpoint, I would say go for it. This industry has been one of the most exciting fields to work in. Women make up just about 4.6% of executive positions in cannabis. It is definitely a male dominated field, which is exactly why we need more amazing women to join!
I do not think there is anything to prepare you for this whirlwind! My advice for any Human Resource professional is to be open and willing to learn. The rules and regulations for cannabis are always changing.
What kind of cannabis products do you usually use, and how do you like to consume them?
I have had problems sleeping since I was in the womb. With that being said I mainly use cannabis to relax and for sleep. I am also very new to cannabis and love trying new products.
My preferred method of consumption is edibles. My go to products are ABX Blueberry Lavender Sleepy Time Gummies and Cann Grapefruit and Rosemary roadies.
I’ve recently started to smoke carts and disposable pens, like the Dosist Sleep 8:1 DVP which I really enjoy! One of these days I will be a master at smoking pre-rolls, but baby steps!
What are the day to day operations for you like and what are some of your crucial duties and responsibilities?
Busy! It makes the day go by fast! A typical day for me is answering a lot of emails, managing employee accounts, assisting employees with any questions and concerns, and interviews.
On an average week I can do anywhere from 8-20 interviews. I can say no two days are alike and honestly, I love what I do. I get to meet and hire some great people.
How do you keep yourself informed about the most recent developments in the cannabis industry?
Honestly, we have some of the best concierges in the cannabis industry that work here. I try to go into the different shops and chat with the concierges.
Each of our concierges are so unique and knowledgeable in different aspects of cannabis. You learn something new all the time when speaking with them. Leafly also has great articles and literature that I enjoy reading in my downtime.
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