Sharon Cunningham began her career with the Memphis Police Department on February 12, 1990, as a Police Service Technician.

On November 7, 1991, she entered the Training Academy as a Police Recruit. Upon completion of basic training on February 15, 1991, she was assigned to Organized Crime Unit.

As a Police Officer, she worked various assignments which included the Central Precinct Alpha, Bravo, and Charlie shift, TelServ Charlie shift, Internal Affairs Bureau, Training Academy, Executive Admin/D.A.R.E and Research and Development.

On July 12, 2000, Officer Cunningham was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. As a Sergeant, she worked Northeast Precinct Delta shift, Internal Affairs Bureau and Executive Administration. Sgt. Cunningham also worked as Executive Assistant to the Deputy Director.

On June 17, 2005, Sergeant Cunningham was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. As a Lieutenant, she worked Airways Station Bravo shift, and Vehicle Theft and the Training Academy.

On October 24, 2016, Lieutenant Cunningham was promoted to the rank of Major. As a Major, she remained at the Training Academy.

On January 29, 2021, Major Cunningham was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. As a Lieutenant Colonel, she remained at the Training Academy.

On May 26, 2022, Lieutenant Colonel Cunningham was appointed to the rank of Colonel. As a Colonel, she remained at the Training Academy.

On January 4, 2025, Colonel Cunningham was appointed to Deputy Chief of Administrative Services.