Our Early Childhood Education (ECE) Workforce Development Programs are thoughtfully designed to create a clear and supportive pathway into the early education profession. We help participants understand state requirements and confidently navigate the steps needed to enter the field, ensuring they are fully prepared as they begin seeking employment.
All Child Care Licensing (CCL) required trainings are provided at no cost, removing financial barriers and expanding access to opportunity.
Beyond meeting compliance requirements, our programs are designed to develop strong, job-ready candidates. Through our Foundations and Child Care Excellence Academy programs, participants receive specialized training aligned with the nationally recognized Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. This portable certification provides a solid foundation in child development, the creation of positive learning environments, high quality interactions with young children.
We invite you to explore our diverse program offerings and take the next step toward a rewarding career in early childhood education.
We know that starting a career in Early Childhood Education can feel overwhelming. That is where Launchpad comes in. We’ve designed this program to clear the path for you, coordinating and paying for every single initial requirement so you can easily meet all the child care licensing requirements.
We believe that professional growth should be accessible. That’s why all classes are provided at no cost to you. We also value your time; most of our coursework is available online, allowing you to complete your training from the comfort of home.
1. The Application: Start by telling us about yourself. We’ll review your background to see if you already have any current training that counts toward your goals.
2. The Plan: You’ll meet with our Program Coordinator to create a personalized roadmap. Together, you’ll set a timeline to complete your requirements in a way that works for your life. Initial Child Care Licensing Requirements include:
· TB Test
· Background Check
· CPR/First Aid certification
· Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
· Shaken Baby Prevention
· Emergency Preparedness
· Recognizing and Reporting Child Abuse
· Signs and Symptoms of Illness and Bloodborne Pathogens
· Building and Physical Premises Safety
· Medication Administration and Food Allergies
· Transportation and Field Trip Safety
· Lifelong Wellness
· Child Development
3. The Future: Once you’ve completed Launchpad, you’ll have a direct bridge to our Foundations Program if you choose to continue your professional journey.
If you are at least 16 years old and have a passion for shaping young minds, Launchpad is for you. Whether you are a student looking for your first career move or someone seeking a meaningful career change, we are here to help you take that first step.
Ready to launch your career? Complete your application today and let us handle the rest.
If you’re ready to become a certified professional, Foundations removes the financial barriers. We provide the 120 hours of education required for your National Credential and we pay you for your time.
· Earn $14.50 per hour for every hour of CDA training you complete.
· Your classes and book fees are 100% covered.
· If you still need your background check, TB test, CPR/First Aid, or initial trainings, we coordinate and pay for those, too.
We provide all the foundational training from our Launchpad program, plus the advanced 120-hour CDA curriculum:
· The Basics: TB Test, Background checks, CPR/First Aid, Initial Training Requirements
· The Credential: 120 hours of professional coursework to earn your National CDA.
1. Apply: Complete the online form to start the process.
2. Plan: Meet with the coordinator to schedule and in-person orientation.
3. Earn: Start your 120 hours of CDA coursework and begin receiving your hourly stipends.
The Child Care Excellence Academy (CCEA) Pre-Apprenticeship program is designed for youth ages 18-24 who are looking to start their career in working with children. Participants receive:
By graduation, participants are prepared to earn their Child Development Associates (CDA) credential and smoothly transition into long-term employment in child care with a portable, industry recognized certificate.
Phase 1 (Weeks 1-12): Paid training and coursework, complete child care licensing requirements, and classroom shadowing.
Paid training and coursework are scheduled 8:30-3:00, Monday-Friday.
Phase 2 (Weeks 13-24): Full time employment with a child care program, classroom observation by CDA assessor and support to complete the CDA exam and portfolio.
Employment hours and hourly pay are negotiated with your employer.
Graduation: Earn your CDA credential, receive a $300 stipend, transition into your career.
Gain 480 hours of classroom experience
Receive a nationally recognized credential
Increase career ladder
Competitive candidate for future job growth and opportunity
To join, you must:
Meet one of the following categories:
If you are unsure or do not see your circumstance on the list, we may still have career guidance available.
If you are interested in more information or would like to apply for our next cohort, contact:
Lela Gonzales
lgonzales@childrenscabinet.org
775-527-9475



To inquire about interviewing, please contact:
Lela Gonzales
lgonzales@childrenscabinet.org
775-527-9475

Ready to interview date- December 15th, 2026
CDA age group- Preschool Classrooms
Ideal classroom age- 3's and 4's
"What I am most excited about as I enter early education is being able to interact with kids while supporting the different ways they learn, grow, and interact with their peers."

Ready to interview date- January 12th, 2026
CDA age group- Infant and Toddler Classroom
Ideal classroom age- Toddlers
"I am excited to enter the field of ECE to nurture safe and healthy relationships and build a foundation that promotes a love of learning. I look forward to making a positive impact on children's sense of self during this important stage of their development."