Her Story
About Bonnie
Bonnie Oshields is the Senior Professional Learning Manager at Wilson Language Training, where she has spent more than 17 years advancing the organization's mission of "Literacy for All." In her leadership role, she oversees a national team of trainers, on-call consultants, and district trainers who equip educators across the country with evidence-based structured literacy practices to support students with dyslexia and other reading challenges. Through her work, Bonnie has helped thousands of educators strengthen their instructional practices, creating a lasting impact on countless students and their families.
A graduate of Clemson University with a degree in English, Bonnie originally envisioned a career in journalism before discovering her passion for literacy education. Inspired by the impact dyslexia had on members of her own family, she transitioned into education and dedicated her career to helping struggling readers succeed. Since joining Wilson Language Training, she has progressed from literacy specialist to senior leadership, mentoring educators and developing future leaders while championing the science of reading and structured literacy. Bonnie also played an instrumental role in establishing one of the first free charter schools for students with dyslexia in Easley, South Carolina, helping expand educational opportunities for children with language-based learning differences.
Bonnie's leadership is grounded in integrity, authenticity, compassion, and servant leadership. She believes that investing in educators creates a ripple effect that transforms the lives of generations of students, making every teacher she supports an extension of her mission. As a pastor's wife, she is equally committed to serving her community through ministry, literacy advocacy, and professional education, regularly presenting at conferences and educational events. Guided by her faith, family, and passion for helping others, Bonnie continues to inspire educators and communities by demonstrating that literacy has the power to change not only classrooms, but futures.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Bonnie
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to leading with integrity, empathy, and compassion while remaining committed to lifelong learning. I’m passionate about equipping educators with the knowledge and tools they need to help every child become a confident reader. Knowing that the teachers I support will positively impact generations of students is what inspires me every day and reinforces my belief in servant leadership.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to stay true to myself and my values because authenticity always matters. No matter how my roles or responsibilities have evolved, I’ve learned that leading with integrity, honesty, and compassion builds trust and creates meaningful impact. I believe the most effective leaders are those whose actions consistently reflect the values they live by.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering education is to discover what you're truly passionate about and let that passion guide your career. Set meaningful goals, create a plan to achieve them, and stay open to learning and growing with every experience. Most importantly, support and encourage other women along the way—I believe our greatest success comes not only from what we accomplish ourselves, but from the people we inspire and empower to succeed.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest opportunities in education today is the growing adoption of structured literacy and science-of-reading practices that are transforming how we teach children to read. I believe this creates an incredible opportunity for educators—especially women—to lead innovation, mentor others, and advocate for students with dyslexia and other learning differences. While there is still progress to be made in increasing the representation of women in senior leadership roles, I’m encouraged by the doors that have been opened and excited about the lasting impact we can make by empowering educators and helping every child reach their full potential.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide both my work and personal life are faith, family, compassion, service, and community. I believe that serving others is one of the most meaningful ways to make a lasting impact, whether that’s mentoring educators, advocating for students with dyslexia, or supporting my local community. At the heart of everything I do is a desire to help others grow, create opportunities, and make a positive difference that extends far beyond the classroom.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.