Ashly graduated from Southern Illinois University and received a bachelor’s degree in aviation management. In his early career, Ashly dedicated twelve years of service to the United States Navy, where he achieved the position of Lieutenant, Medevac Search and Rescue Mission Commander/Pilot.

Later, Ashly earned a master’s degree in health science degree from Duke University and began working as a physician assistant in Raleigh, NC. He has considerable experience in emergency medicine.