Plumbing Outfitters COO Ashley Stroud Receives 2025 Women in Business Award, Signaling Shift in Skilled Trades Leadership

Ashley Stroud, Co-Owner and Chief Operating Officer of Plumbing Outfitters, has been named among the distinguished recipients of the 2025 Women in Business Award by the Austin Business Journal. This annual recognition celebrates the most dynamic and influential women in Central Texas who are driving innovation, growth, and leadership across various business sectors. Stroud's achievement represents a significant milestone for women in the traditionally male-dominated plumbing industry, signaling expanding opportunities for female leadership in skilled trades.

As COO of Plumbing Outfitters, which she co-established with her husband John Stroud, Stroud has been instrumental in transforming the company into one of the fastest-growing plumbing service providers in Central Texas. Her responsibilities encompass overseeing business operations, fostering leadership development, and driving strategic growth while leading a team committed to integrity, craftsmanship, and exceptional service. Her operational leadership has been crucial to the company's rapid expansion and industry recognition.

Stroud expressed that receiving this recognition from the Austin Business Journal is incredibly humbling. She stated her aspiration for her journey to inspire more women to explore the trades as a viable path toward leadership and ownership. Plumbing Outfitters was founded on principles of faith, values, and hard work, and Stroud takes pride in representing what is achievable when one leads with intention. These comments underscore the broader implications for workforce diversity and career opportunities in skilled trades.

Under Stroud's guidance, Plumbing Outfitters has earned multiple accolades, including recognition at the Austin Family Business Awards and the Longhorn 100, where it was acknowledged as one of the fastest-growing companies led by Longhorn alumni. These achievements demonstrate the company's sustained growth trajectory and industry impact under her operational leadership. The company's success story serves as a model for other businesses in the trades sector seeking to combine traditional craftsmanship with modern business practices.

The Women in Business Awards presented by the Austin Business Journal honor influential women executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders who exemplify excellence in business, innovation, and mentorship within the Greater Austin area. Awardees are selected based on their professional achievements, leadership qualities, and community impact. Stroud's selection reflects her significant contributions to both her company and the broader business community through her leadership approach and commitment to excellence.

Plumbing Outfitters, founded and operated by dedicated Central Texans, provides both residential and commercial plumbing services throughout the Greater Austin region. The company's mission to serve team members, customers, and community is evident in its commitment to quality workmanship, ethical practices, and local involvement. Additional information about Plumbing Outfitters can be found at https://plumbingoutfitters.com. Stroud's recognition coincides with a period of significant transformation in the plumbing industry, marked by increasing emphasis on professional standards, customer service excellence, and diverse leadership representation.