Early Childhood Students Look for Opportunities at CTC

Students and graduates of Chattahoochee Technical College’s Early Childhood Care and Education program were given the opportunity to meet with prospective employers at the college’s Marietta Campus Atrium on Sept. 25. 

Around 15 childcare, preschool and learning facilities were on hand to speak with students about career opportunities working with young children.

Chattahoochee Technical College offers its Early Childhood Care and Education program at the associate degree, diploma and certificate levels. 

Taught at many of the Chattahoochee Technical College campuses and online, the program includes a sequence of courses designed to prepare students for a variety of careers in the field of early childhood education. 

The program emphasizes a combination of early childhood care and education theory and practical application, as well as general core competencies necessary for successful employment. 

Depending on the degree or diploma level, program graduates have the qualifications to be employed in early care and education settings including child care centers, Head Start, Georgia Pre-K programs, and elementary school paraprofessional positions.

“More than 400 students are studying Early Childhood Care and Education this semester,” said Lead Instructor Frances Carlson. “These students are studying anything from the 3-course certificate that offers the basics required by the state for those who work in these settings to a 72-credit hour associate of applied science degree that provides even more career opportunities.”

According to the Georgia Department of Labor, childcare providers and preschool teachers are one of the top 10 in-demand careers in Georgia currently. Students studying for a diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education at Chattahoochee Technical College are able to receive between $250 and $500 from the Strategic Industries Workforce Development Grant if they qualify to receive HOPE Grant funds.

Some of these same employers will also be taking part in Chattahoochee Technical College’s Fall Career Fair on Oct. 29, 2013 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in building A at the North Metro Campus, 5198 Ross Road, Acworth, GA 30102.  Students, alumni, and the general public are welcome to attend this free event.