Shackleford is an independent life and health insurance broker. She was previously a project manager for both Crowe Horwath and Engaging Solutions consulting firms. Shackleford worked for Indianapolis Mayor Bart Peterson as the Diversity Affairs Director. Shackleford has worked as a policy and research specialist for the Indiana Health Care Association. Shackleford is a graduate of Indiana University and IUPUI, having earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees in public affairs. She currently serves as board President for Pathway Resource Center. And was a former board member for Indy Reads and Martin University. Other civic involvement includes National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Indianapolis Chapter; Eastern Star Church; National Black Caucus of State Legislators; Governing Institute's Women in Government Leadership Program; Concerned Clergy; and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.