Ashley T. Johnson has made history as the first Black woman to be appointed as the special agent in charge of the St. Louis FBI Field Office. This groundbreaking announcement, made by FBI Director Christopher Wray, marks a significant milestone in the bureau’s leadership and diversity efforts.
Paving the Way for Diversity and Inclusion
Prior to her promotion, Johnson served as the section chief of the International Operations Division at FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C.
Her extensive experience and impressive career trajectory have positioned her as a trailblazer, inspiring other aspiring law enforcement professionals from underrepresented communities.
A Multifaceted Background Rooted in Public Service
Johnson’s journey to this esteemed position is marked by a diverse educational and professional background. She holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, a master’s degree in sociology, and an additional degree in social work and public policy.
Before joining the FBI, she worked as a probation officer and psychiatric social worker, further honing her skills in the realm of public service.
Navigating the FBI’s Ranks: A Remarkable Ascent
Johnson’s career with the FBI began in 2007, when she joined the New Orleans division. There, she investigated civil rights violations and white-collar crimes, showcasing her ability to handle complex cases.
She then rose through the ranks, becoming a supervisory special agent in the cyber division, where she oversaw national cyber investigations across multiple field offices.
Tackling Diverse Challenges Across the Country
Johnson’s career trajectory continued to soar as she took on leadership roles in various FBI divisions. In Atlanta, she tackled law enforcement corruption, supervised civil rights issues, and led the domestic terrorism squad, handling all domestic terrorism threats for the state of Georgia.
Her dedication and expertise earned her a promotion to assistant special agent in charge of the division’s criminal branch, where she founded the Atlanta Development and Leadership Council to foster mentorship, leadership development, and training initiatives.
