Wende L Willbanks
My journey into the classroom wasn't traditional, but it was deeply intentional. While raising three very active boys, I worked part time as a freelance designer before becoming a Sr. Brand Strategist for a business-to-business publication in NWA. I reached a pivotal moment when my youngest started preschool; at 39, I decided to return to my own education to pursue my teaching license. I completed a non-traditional certification program to specialize in Business Education, fueled by a desire to bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical professional skills. Today, I have spent 15 years paying that investment forward. Whether I am mentoring a student through their first robot build, navigating the design process, or cultivating essential soft skills, my mission is constant: to ignite the spark that transforms a simple classroom project into a lifelong career path.
My path to education was guided by my faith, my family and inspired by many mentors throughout my life. This mission was also fueled by my 9 years as a coach, where I learned the importance of discipline, persistence, and pushing others to be their best. I view my role as a lifelong learner—always evolving to ensure my students have the encouragement they need to succeed.
• Coaching Certification
• Computer Science Certification from University of Arkansas
• Coursework Certification for Automation Robotics and Design and Modeling
• Bachelor's Degree in Family Consumer Science with Interior Design from University of Central Arkansas
• Education License
What do you attribute your success to?
Behind every risk I’ve taken is a foundation of faith and unwavering support. My husband of 34 years has been my absolute rock; his grace and sacrifice provided the space for me to pursue every challenge I’ve encountered. Along with my mother and three influential sons, he has been the force that allowed me to ‘do my thing’ with confidence. I also owe my success to a dedicated ‘tribe’ of women who keep me grounded yet inspired. Having that circle of women to push, challenge, and encourage me has been the key to everything I’ve achieved.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
There is a beautiful concept called the 'second bloom'—the idea that after raising children, you finally step into the fullest version of yourself. While I initially approached 50 with hesitation, crossing that threshold felt less like a sunset and more like an awakening. It unleashed a new sense of power and clarity. I want other women to know that there is no expiration date on your potential. Life isn't over at 40 or 50; in many ways, it’s just beginning. The best chapters of our lives are often the ones we never saw coming, fueled by the wisdom of being a lifelong learner.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I’ve learned that the most rewarding chapters of my life are often the ones I never saw coming. There is no expiration date on your dreams, and I am living proof that our narratives are never final. After turning 50, I moved past the dread and discovered a sense of unleashed power and clarity that comes when you finally know who you are. My mission is to remind women that life doesn't wind down at 40 or 50; it opens up. By remaining a lifelong learner and refusing to settle, you’ll find that your story is still being written in ways more powerful than you ever imagined.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Most teachers pick one subject and stay there for 30 years. I have had to essentially learn a variety of careers every few years to stay relevant. Changing schools often compounds this, as I have to adapt to student demographics and current business practices in industry.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I believe that a teacher’s primary job isn't just to deliver a curriculum, but to be a steady, encouraging presence in a student’s life. I am deeply rooted in my relationships. My family and "tribe of women" are my grounding force. I am certainly not a solo act.
Locations
Bentonville Schools
Bentonville, AR 72712