New Program to Address Daycare Crisis

Apprenticeship launched for spring 2023 semester.

Early childhood centers are in crisis and the need for skilled workers to teach our preschoolers is greater than ever before. Between 2013-2022, the Wisconsin Technical College System served almost 32,000 students interested in a career in Early Childhood Education. However, the number of students enrolled has been trending down for the past three years.

To help be a part of the solution, the college has begun offering a new Early Childhood Educator Apprentice option. The two-year apprenticeship provides apprentices the opportunity to earn wages and learn on-the-job skills at a childcare center while attending classes at FVTC.

The 24-credit apprenticeship program was launched in January. The courses are fully online and create a pathway for those who want to continue their education and pursue an associate degree in Early Childhood Education.