How one of CMU Tech’s apprenticeship programs is helping to solve the childcare crisis to create a better future for western Colorado’s economy and workforce
Staffing challenges in early childcare is one of the biggest crises facing American families and employers today. For an economy to function at its best, businesses need a workforce that has access to reliable, high-quality childcare. The Early Childhood Education Apprenticeship Program at CMU Tech was created to address this pressing challenge. The solution: prepare a new generation of educators with the skills and real-world experience necessary to make a significant impact.
Apprentices can be found in a variety of industries. They work directly in the field they’re studying and gain practical experience while being mentored by experienced professionals. The students also earn while they learn, breaking down financial barriers that often prevent individuals from entering or completing their education.
For employers like Robin Hood, talent acquisition specialist at Centro de la Familia in Grand Junction, Colorado, the apprenticeship program has made a significant impact on her hiring process. With about 30 centers across four states, she has seen first-hand how difficult it is to hire qualified candidates. After connecting with CMU Tech Early Education Apprenticeship Specialist Mindy Gutierrez and becoming an apprentice partner with the campus, she was introduced to Sierra Watkins, a CMU Tech student enrolled in the Early Childhood Education (ECE) Program. Watkins started at the facility in January 2024 and worked 2,000 hours to complete the training.
“We struggle like everyone in the valley to find good people who qualify,” said Hood. “Sierra needed hours, and we needed teachers. She received the experience she needed working side by side with certified teachers and now that her apprenticeship is over, she’s staying on with us for another six months as she finishes out her studies in preparation for graduation.”
The apprenticeship model is a win-win for both the student and the employer. It not only benefits students by providing them with an immediate pathway to employment but also enhances the quality of care within the local communities, which are in desperate need of well-trained educators.
“I greatly value the CMU Tech apprenticeship program, which has been an excellent addition to Centro de la Familia. Mindy, the apprenticeship coordinator, is an absolute pleasure to work with. Our program focuses on employing preschool teachers, a profession currently in high demand,” said Hood.
Making the program even more robust is CMU Tech’s partnership with the Mesa County Workforce Center (MCWFC). Businesses that sign on with CMU Tech’s apprenticeship programs enjoy significant financial benefits. The MCWFC can reimburse companies between 50-75% of an apprentice’s wage, which makes the program financially viable for more local businesses.
“I highly recommend this program to any organization seeking skilled and educated employees,” said Hood.
Hands-on learning experiences like the ECE Apprenticeship Program at CMU Tech are essential for building a stronger foundation for the youngest members of society while addressing the critical staffing shortages that have plagued the field for years. A benefit to the Grand Valley and beyond, CMU Tech’s apprenticeship programs includes a variety of fields, not just ECE.
“CMU Tech’s apprenticeship programs span a wide range of industries, reflecting the diversity of the workforce needs in western Colorado. From healthcare to technology and even early childhood education, CMU Tech apprentices are gaining essential experience that prepares them for today’s competitive job market,” said CMU Vice President of Technical Education and Workforce Development Brigitte Sündermann.
By fostering this innovative apprenticeship model, CMU Tech is not just preparing students for their careers — it is shaping a future of skilled professionals by providing tangible resources during their most formative years. CMU Tech’s variety of apprenticeship opportunities ensure that local businesses and the workforce continue to grow together — fostering a stronger economy and a bright future for western Colorado.