Shannon Wingard recognized for executive support and community service

Shannon Wingard, an executive assistant at Grand Design RV in Middlebury, Indiana, was named one of Middlebury’s Influential Women in 2026. Her profile highlights a career built on education, operations support, lifelong learning, and extensive volunteer leadership.

Why it matters: - Wingard’s profile shows how executive support roles can shape day-to-day operations at a manufacturing company while also influencing community service. - Her recognition reflects the growing visibility of women who lead through behind-the-scenes work, mentorship, and civic involvement.

What happened: - Influential Women profiled Shannon Wingard, EA, NP, of Middlebury, Indiana, on October 2, 2026. - Wingard works as an Executive Assistant and Notary Public at Grand Design RV. - Wingard was named one of Middlebury’s Influential Women in 2026. - Wingard’s profile highlights her career in education, corporate operations, and community leadership.

The details: - Wingard spent 16 years with Elkhart Community Schools as a teacher and reading specialist. - Wingard earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and English/Language Arts from Ball State University. - Wingard later earned a master’s degree in Reading Specialist/Elementary Education (K–12). - Wingard is certified as a Reading Specialist. - Wingard moved from education into the manufacturing sector after 16 years in the classroom. - Wingard previously held Executive Assistant roles at Abro Industries and ARBOC Specialty Vehicles. - Wingard has worked at Grand Design RV for four years. - Wingard handles state licensing compliance, notarizations, executive calendar management, travel coordination, meeting documentation and internal communications. - Wingard says her role requires discretion, composure under pressure and the ability to anticipate leadership needs. - Wingard is also a Notary Public through the Indiana Secretary of State. - Wingard recently completed a certification program for executive assistants. - Wingard listens to podcasts, watches instructional videos and takes online courses to keep learning. - Wingard said the RV industry is in about its fourth year of a major market downturn, which she sees as one of the biggest challenges in her field.

Between the lines: - Wingard’s career path underscores how skills from education transfer into corporate operations, especially in communication, organization and problem-solving. - Her emphasis on learning suggests that executive support roles are becoming more specialized and skill-driven. - Wingard’s approach to leadership reflects a workplace philosophy that values every employee, from senior leadership to custodial staff. - Her community work shows that professional influence can extend far beyond a company title.

What's next: - Wingard said she wants to keep developing her skills as her role evolves. - She is focused on encouraging young women in industries where they may not see many people like themselves. - Wingard’s advice is to speak up, make their voices heard and claim a seat at the table. - She plans to continue her volunteer and board work with the Middlebury Chamber of Commerce, Ronald McDonald House efforts, RV Women’s Alliance and Women’s Inclusion Network.

The bottom line: - Wingard’s profile centers on a career built on service, adaptability and steady support for both leadership and community organizations.

More information on Shannon Wingard’s profile