At Guardian Protection Force, we are both humbled and proud to announce that our CEO and co-founder, Ashlee Cervantes Thomas, has been named to the Sacramento Business Journal’s prestigious “40 Under 40” list for 2025. This recognition shines a spotlight on Ashlee’s remarkable leadership, entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to elevating standards across the security industry.
Ashlee brings over 15 years of experience to her role at GPF, guiding everything from day-to-day operations to long-term strategic planning and innovation initiatives. Armed with an MBA from UC Davis, she has not only built our executive protection division – what many know simply as bodyguard services – but also founded Guardian Secure Solutions (GSS), a 1-stop shop for Security Operations, Dispatch Services, and Security Consulting. GSS provides cutting-edge, strategic, AI-driven security solutions.
Honored Among Sacramento’s Top Young Leaders
Each year, the Sacramento Business Journal selects 40 up-and-coming professionals whose accomplishments span a variety of industries. The honorees are chosen by a panel of previous recipients and editorial staff, and their names roll out in groups of 10 from late August through October. Ashlee appears in the first group alongside leaders in finance, health, energy and more – including Brett Baker of Atlas CPAs LLP, Maria Bardet of Humani Pilates and Geneva Budd of SMUD. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to this talented cohort.
A Grateful Reflection
Being named to “40 Under 40” is a testament not only to Ashlee’s vision but also to the strength of the entire GPF team. Our rigorous hiring and training process – and our commitment to maintaining some of the highest industry standards – would not succeed without every member’s expertise and passion. From protective intelligence and security consulting to armed security services, we deliver tailored, responsive solutions wherever duty calls – whether here in Rancho Cordova, throughout Northern California or beyond.
Driving Innovation in Security
Under Ashlee’s leadership, GPF has embraced cutting-edge methods to safeguard clients in complex environments. Her thought leadership is especially recognized in:
- Workplace violence prevention programs designed for corporate and educational settings
- Security consulting that anticipates and mitigates emerging risks
- Championing diversity and inclusion in a traditionally male-dominated field
- Serving as Vice President of CALSAGA, where she advocates for best practices and professionalism
Her mission remains clear: to deliver high-caliber, ethical security solutions that uplift and protect our communities. By combining human expertise with advanced technology Ashlee ensures that GPF stays at the forefront of our field.
What’s Next?
As the 40 Under 40 ceremony approaches on October 30, we invite you to follow our blog and social channels for updates on the honoree announcements and details on how to celebrate with us at the Sacramento Business Journal awards event.
On behalf of everyone at Guardian Protection Force – and Guardian Secure Solutions – we extend our deepest gratitude to our clients, partners and community. Thank you for supporting our mission to redefine excellence in private security, and thank you in joining us as we recognize our leader, Ashlee Cervantes Thomas.
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