Nikki Wilson
Nikki Wilson (she/her) is a generational educator and leadership-driven early childhood professional with a deep commitment to cultivating positive, inclusive, and developmentally rich learning environments. A graduate of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, Nikki brings both academic grounding and lived experience to her work, guided by strengths in relationship-building (Woo), achievement, positivity, strategic thinking, and organization.
Nikki currently serves as a Quality Child Care Partnership Specialist with the Nebraska Early Childhood Collaborative, where she supports quality improvement initiatives and collaborates with providers to strengthen early learning systems. In addition, she is a consultant with Nature Explore, working with schools and educators nationwide to design and activate outdoor classrooms that foster nature-based, experiential learning. Her facilitation style is engaging, supportive, and energizing, helping educators feel confident and equipped to bring meaningful change into their programs.
Known for leading with kindness and connection, Nikki is passionate about supporting educators across generations and empowering leaders at every stage of their journey. She believes that strong relationships, thoughtful environments, and joyful learning experiences are the foundation of lifelong success for children and the professionals who serve them. Through her work, Nikki continues to champion early childhood education as a powerful catalyst for individual growth, community impact, and lasting positive change.
• University of Nebraska-Lincoln
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the experiences and lessons gained over my 20-year career in education. Although I initially resisted my family’s encouragement to pursue teaching, choosing this path ultimately aligned with my purpose and strengths. Embracing that journey has allowed me to grow, lead with authenticity, and remain deeply committed to the impact education can have across generations.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to never stop—never stop learning, growing, or moving forward. Persistence and consistency have been key drivers throughout my career.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to stay open to opportunities, even those that may not look like part of your original plan. Being open allows you to grow, learn, and discover paths that can shape a meaningful and successful career.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are lifelong learning, curiosity, and growth. As a consultant with Nature Explore, I value continuously learning alongside educators nationwide, just as I do in my own home as a mother of four boys—each with unique strengths, personalities, and paths. My diverse experiences in education have reinforced my belief that learning never stops and that honoring individual differences is essential in both leadership and life.