Registered Apprenticeship Builds Skills and Strengthens Early Childhood Education at S.E.E.D.S. Learning Center

For S.E.E.D.S. Learning Center in Kalamazoo, investing in employees through Registered Apprenticeship is an investment in both their staff and the children they serve.

Through an Employer-Led Collaborative, S.E.E.D.S. supported an employee in earning a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, strengthening her knowledge and skills in early childhood education. The training provided practical strategies for supporting preschoolers’ social and emotional development, while building skills in communication, problem-solving, adaptability and self-regulation.

The impact extends beyond the individual apprentice. With CDA-certified staff, S.E.E.D.S. can demonstrate a stronger level of expertise in early childhood education, improve program effectiveness and better meet regulatory requirements. The organization also sees an opportunity to attract more families seeking high-quality early childhood education.

For the apprentice, earning the CDA credential increased professional confidence and effectiveness while opening the door to better job opportunities and higher earning potential. The training also strengthened her ability to build relationships with parents and enhance family engagement.

The experience also highlighted the value of workforce investments that provide employees with the tools they need to succeed. As the apprentice noted, the support provided through the State Apprenticeship Expansion Grant 2023 helped her access a computer that improved her productivity, allowed her to complete assignments and provided access to information needed for both work and education.

Building a Stronger Workforce Through Apprenticeship

S.E.E.D.S. Learning Center’s experience demonstrates how Registered Apprenticeships can benefit both employees and employers. By combining hands-on experience with education and industry-recognized credentials, apprenticeship creates opportunities for employees to grow while helping employers build a more skilled and effective workforce.

Michigan Works! Southwest helps employers explore Registered Apprenticeship opportunities and connect employees with training that supports career growth and business needs.