For many aspiring early child educators, the path to a rewarding career can feel out of reach. Balancing work, college coursework, and financial responsibilities is no small challenge. But with the right support and opportunities, pursuing a career in early childhood education can become an achievable and fulling path forward.
CCRC’s Early Childhood Education (ECE) Apprenticeship Program is helping make that path possible. The program gives participants the opportunity to gain valuable work experience while completing their education – all with the support they need to succeed. Designed for individuals who are passionate about working with young children, the program combines hands-on learning with classroom instruction, allowing apprentices to build meaningful careers while making an immediate impact in their communities.
Building Skills for Success
CCRC’s apprenticeship program is more than a traditional training program. Apprentices work alongside experienced professionals, develop practical classroom skills, complete college coursework, and receive ongoing guidance throughout their journey.
Participants benefit from:
- Paid, on-the-job training
- College coursework aligned with career goals
- Professional mentorship and coaching
- Supportive services designed to help apprentices succeed
- A clear pathway toward a career in early childhood education
- And so much more!
And by earning while they learn, apprentices are able to gain real-world experience without putting their education- or their financial stability- on hold.
For CCRC Teacher Assistant Ashley Von Osdo, the program has been a life-changing step toward a career she loves. “There are numerous benefits to CCRC’s apprenticeship program. You learn about child development while gaining experience in the child care industry, which can open the door to so many opportunities to work with children.”
Ashley’s experience with the program has also transformed the way she sees her future.
“My life changed because I started working toward a career. Before, I was working part-time jobs, and I wasn’t really happy with my work. Now, I find my job very fulfilling – it’s something I could see myself doing for the rest of my life.”
Investing in the Future of Early Childhood Education
California continues to face a growing need for qualified early educators. Programs like CCRC’s Apprenticeship Program are helping strengthen the workforce by preparing dedicated professionals who are equipped to support children during their most important years of development.
For apprentices, the experience extends beyond technical skills. They gain confidence, develop leadership abilities, and become part of a network of educators committed to making a difference for children and families. For CCRC Teacher Veronica Muñoz, the program not only opened the door to a new career; it helped her discover what she was capable of achieving.
“The program made me believe in myself. Now, I feel empowered. I started CCRC’s apprenticeship program as a parent. My twin boys were enrolled in a CCRC Head Start program, and that’s how my journey with CCRC began. Through the program, I was able to return to school, and I recently graduated with my associate degree in Early Childhood Education. It has been an incredible journey, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come.”
A Career with Purpose
If you’re ready to explore a career in early childhood education, CCRC invites prospective participants in the Antelope Valley and San Fernando Valley to attend an upcoming ECE Apprenticeship Earn While You Learn Information Sessions where attendees will learn about:
- Program eligibility and benefits
- Paid on-the-job training
- Educational requirements
- Supportive services
- The application process
- And much more
Whether you’re beginning your career or looking for a new opportunity to grow in the field, this information session is the perfect place to learn how you can earn while you learn!
CCRC’s Apprenticeship Program: Upcoming Cohorts
Recruitment is now underway for the San Fernando Valley cohort. Space is limited, so attend an information session to learn more about this exciting career pathway.
- San Fernando Valley (SFV): Begins اکتبر 19, 2026
- Antelope Valley: Begins ژانویه 2027
Interested in Learning More and Applying?
Through CCRC’s Earn While You Learn Apprenticeship Program, participants don’t just prepare for a job – they prepare for a meaningful career dedicated to helping children thrive. Whether someone is just beginning their journey in early child care and education or looking to grow within the profession, the program provides the knowledge and support needed to take the next step. If you are interested in applying to CCRC’s Apprenticeships Program, please click here. For any questions on the program or details on information sessions, please contact Mariah Johnson at [email protected].