Worcester Business Journal

wbjournal.com | August 24, 2026 | Worcester Business Journal 33 Member FDIC You know your business better than anyone. But business banking comes with its own complexities — when to spend, when to save and how cash moves. At Country Bank, we understand how business banking should work. That's why we partner with you to provide the support and know-how when you don't know how. IT'S OKAY IF YOU DON'T KNOW HOW. BEC AUSE W E DO. Member FDIC Member DIF Scan to learn more. 4 0 U N D E R F O R T Y Ashley Riley, 38 Senior wealth advisor, Bartholomew & Co., in Worcester Residence: Holden College: Assumption University Ashley Riley traded scientific research for wealth management, bringing an analytical approach from the laboratory into clients' financial planning. Riley joined Bartholomew & Co. in 2015 after working at Massachusetts General Hospital's Transplantation Biology Research Center, where she contributed to immunology research published in multiple peer-reviewed scientific journals. At Bartholomew, she has helped expand the firm's comprehensive financial planning services while strengthening long-term client relationships and contributing to growth in assets under management through client retention and referrals. Riley now leads the firm's growing financial planning department, working with advisors to develop and implement personalized financial plans. Her transition from biology to finance required mastering a new industry while earning clients' trust. She holds FINRA Series 7 and 66 registrations and is an accredited investment fiduciary professional. A working mother of four, Riley devotes much of her community involvement to her children's schools, youth sports, and extracurricular activities, supporting young athletes and their teams. Do you prefer working from home or the office? I like both, but find being in the office allows for more collaboration. What is the best restaurant in Central Mass.? VIA Why do you choose to live in Central Mass.? Central Massachusetts has always been home. I grew up here and chose to raise my family here because of the strong sense of community and family connections. What is your proudest moment? Becoming a mom! Shane Sampson, 35 Senior estimator & preconstruction manager, Fontaine Bros., Inc., in Worcester Residence: Boylston College: Worcester Polytechnic Institute Shane Sampson helps move major construction projects from plans to reality before crews arrive onsite. Since joining Fontaine Bros. in 2023, Sampson has led preconstruction efforts on projects totaling more than $500 million across Massachusetts. He develops budgets, evaluates subcontractor pricing, manages risk, and works with owners and design teams on cost-effective solutions. Promoted within 18 months, he now leads three estimators and mentors employees. Before Fontaine, Sampson worked on Boston's One Dalton Four Seasons Hotel & Private Residences, a 60-story tower. He spent nearly three years helping manage the project from deep foundations through structural construction and final inspections, experience he now applies during preconstruction. For seven years, Sampson has volunteered with Preservation Worcester's Most Endangered Structures Committee, advocating for historic Worcester properties at risk. What actor would play you if Hollywood made a movie about your life? John Krasinski – assuming Hollywood can teach him construction, improve his golf game, and convince everyone he grew up in Worcester. Why do you choose to live in Central Mass.? I was raised here, built my career here, and now I'm raising my family here. Investing in Central Massachusetts feels like investing in home. What one life lesson do you most want to pass onto the next generation? Character matters more than talent. Work hard, keep your word, treat people well, and success will take care of itself. W W

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