Employer Opportunities in Early Childhood Apprenticeships
BUILDING BRIGHT FUTURES is a pilot program that supports early childhood pre-apprenticeships and apprenticeships in North Carolina, providing guidance, resources, and financial support to participants. Combining hands-on training, related coursework, and specialized training creates a strong foundation for a high-quality workforce.
To learn more about pre-apprenticeships and apprenticeships in Early Childhood Education, please visit our For Educators page.
Employer Benefits
Sponsoring a pre-apprenticeship and/or apprenticeship can offer many benefits, including:
- Access to a highly qualified and educated workforce
- Potential to earn a higher star rating
- Increased retention
- Customized skills training
- Opportunities to meet future staffing needs
Financial Support
As part of the Building Bright Futures program, employers can receive funding to support pre-apprentices or apprentices with:
- Salary match of 50% of apprenticeship wages
- Required DCDEE health & safety trainings
- Transportation costs
- Materials and supplies
- Child care
- Health screenings
- Background checks
Professional Development
In addition to coursework and work-based learning, program participants are offered career enrichment opportunities to enhance their industry knowledge. These are provided at no cost to pre-apprentices and employers:
- Industry-recognized credentials
- Guest speakers, field trips, and conferences
- Personalized mentorship from experienced professionals in the early childhood field
- Communication with peers as part of a cohort
See it in Action!
See students in McDowell County as they sign-on and work in their early childhood pre-apprenticeship program. There is nothing like taking what you learn in the classroom, and making it come alive by working directly with children in a child care center!
Get Started
For more information about how Building Bright Futures can support your business, simply contact us or fill out this interest form to get started!
Contact
For more information about how Building Bright Futures can support you, please contact:
Through apprenticeships in early childhood education, North Carolina is building a bright future
for our children, our educators and caregivers, and our workforce!