News and Press Releases - 2006

Garrett Ashley appointed undersecretary for international trade

Former Schwarzenegger Administration Deputy Chief of Staff Garrett Ashley today was appointed Business, Transportation and Housing Agency undersecretary for international trade.

"From organizing successful trade missions to both China and Japan to ensuring my office ran effectively and efficiently, Garrett has served as a tremendously valuable member of my staff over the course of the past two years," said Gov. Schwarzenegger. "I look forward to his continued advice and counsel as he works to promote California's economy internationally and strengthen our ties with other nations."

In his new post, Ashley will oversee the California International Trade Partnership Business Plan in addition to engaging in key aspects of future foreign trade missions. Ashley also will work with the U.S. Department of Commerce Foreign Commercial Service to maximize federal resources on behalf of California.

"Gov. Schwarzenegger is committed to strengthening California's effectiveness in the international trade arena," said Secretary Sunne Wright McPeak. We are excited to have Garrett on our team dedicated to promoting California's competitive edge in the global marketplace."

Ashley previously worked as executive director of TechNet - Orange County, a high-tech political advocacy association where he worked to create bipartisan events for policy makers and implemented the organization's political strategy. Prior to TechNet, Ashley served as chief of staff to U.S. Representative Steve Kuykendall, worked as chief deputy director at the California Office of Emergency Services, and was deputy director of advance for Gov. Pete Wilson.

"I am grateful to Gov. Schwarzenegger and Secretary McPeak for providing this opportunity for me to help build California's profile as a leader in the international trade community," said Ashley. "International trade will be central to the future economic vitality of this state."

International trade already is critical to California's economy as the number-one state in the nation for attracting foreign direct investment - currently reaching more than $120 billion. In addition, foreign-affiliate employment currently contributes more 700,000 jobs in California.

Ashley, 39, graduated with a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of New Mexico. The position does not require legislative approval. Ashley is a Republican.