West Michigan is facing a critical shortage of child care workers, a problem that’s impacting both the local economy and families. A recent survey from West Michigan Works! (WMW) revealed that nearly 80% of employers identify access to child care as a major obstacle in recruiting and retaining employees.
To tackle this issue, WMW is set to expand its Early Care and Education Apprenticeship program with additional funding expected from the second round of Caring for MI Future grants.
“We’re working to connect child care employers with training providers to create an apprenticeship pathway in early childhood education,” said Kelly Tang, Project Manager at WMW. “The goal is to bring in apprentices who can meet workforce demands in the child care industry.”
An Apprenticeship That Pairs Learning with Earning
The apprenticeship program pairs child care centers with local training institutions, allowing employees to gain hands-on experience while working toward their Child Development Associate (CDA) credentials. This “earn-while-you-learn” model provides participants with both practical skills and the opportunity to grow into higher-paying roles in the industry.
As apprentices, participants are mentored and attend courses to complete the CDA credential. This program offers them a clear path to advance in the field, moving from assistant teacher to lead teacher or potentially stepping into management or elementary education roles.
According to Tang, the program also addresses the child care industry’s persistent turnover, which is often driven by low wages and demanding work conditions. By combining on-the-job training with credentialing, the apprenticeship provides a potential for better pay and job stability.
Better Pay and Long-Term Growth
Credentialed child care workers typically earn $15-$16 per hour, compared to $12-$13 for those without a CDA. This pay increase could help address retention challenges and draw more people into the field.
“This apprenticeship not only helps with immediate staffing needs, but it also improves retention,” said Tang. “Employees gain confidence, learn essential skills like curriculum building and behavior management, and improve their relationships with parents—all of which enhances the quality of care and attracts more families.”
Building Partnerships for Success
The apprenticeship program grew out of a network of partnerships established during the first phase of the Caring for MI Future grant. Organizations like Steepletown Neighborhood Services, United Way of the Lakeshore, Goodwill Industries of West Michigan, and Grand Rapids Community College have been key in shaping the program to meet the child care sector’s needs.
“This program wouldn’t be possible without our community partners,” Tang emphasized. “Their input has been crucial in creating a program that truly serves the unique needs of the child care industry.”
If the second round of funding is approved, WMW plans to support up to nine child care providers and enroll up to 27 new apprentices.
“We aim to create a sustainable pipeline of qualified, committed professionals in the child care field,” said Tang. “Ultimately, we want apprentices to become mentors, passing on their skills to the next generation of workers.”
Preparing for the Next Steps
As WMW waits for confirmation of the second round of funding, plans are already in place to move forward. Once the funding is secured, child care providers will be able to hire apprentices or receive support to create their own apprenticeship programs. The first group of apprentices could begin within the next six months, with training typically lasting three months.
“We’re not just looking for short-term solutions,” Tang said. “This program is about creating long-term stability in the child care workforce, benefiting both providers and families. Quality child care is essential to our community and economy.”
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