Career Development Center (CDA) Training Program: Earn While You Learn
Are you ready to begin your career in early childhood education, gain recognized professional experience, and receive stipends while training? The Career Development Center’s CDA Paid Training Program offers a practical, supportive pathway into the early childhood field—allowing you to earn while you build essential skills.

🎓 Program Highlights: Training + Employment + Stipends
1. Paid Job-Readiness Training
Before entering the classroom, participants receive paid preparatory training, covering:
Child development fundamentals
Classroom management skills
Health and safety procedures
CDA competency standards
You receive stipends during the training period, reducing financial burden while you learn.
2. Paid Placement at Real Early Childhood Sites
After completing initial training, apprentices are placed in:
Early childhood centers
Preschool or pre-K programs
Licensed child care centers
You receive an hourly wage while gaining the practical experience required for your CDA credential.
3. Additional Stipends Beyond Regular Pay
In addition to standard wages, you also receive extra stipends to support continued training and professional growth.
4. Dedicated Academic and Career Support
The Career Development Center supports early childhood professionals across the city and state through:
- Academic advising
- Career planning
- CDA application guidance
- Networking and industry connections
This ensures long-term development—not just short-term employment.
🧾 Eligibility: Who Can Join?
This program is open to adults aged 18 and above who want to begin or advance a career in early childhood education.
| Participant Type | Why It’s Suitable |
|---|---|
| Ages 18–30 | Entering the workforce; building foundation for a long-term career |
| Ages 31–45 | Career changers seeking stable, meaningful work |
| Ages 46–60 | Strengthening professional credentials and gaining formal recognition |
| 60+ | Community contributors or retirees wishing to support early learning programs |
📘 What You Will Learn (Aligned With CDA Competencies)
The training is structured around key CDA competency standards, including:
- Development and observation of children ages 0–5
- Designing learning environments and interaction strategies
- Health, safety, and nutrition practices
- Family engagement and communication
- Professional conduct and teamwork
- Real-world tasks and job-based scenarios
💼 After Completing the Program, You Will Gain:
Industry-recognized early education experience (CDA-required hours)
Paid work history in licensed early childhood settings
CDA Certificate
Pathways for continued development (Infant/Toddler or Preschool tracks)
🧠 Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q1: Is previous experience required? No. The program is designed for individuals with no prior early childhood experience.
Q2: Are stipends provided during training? Yes. Stipends are provided during both training and professional development.
Q3: Will participants be placed in a job? Yes. Apprentices are placed in partner early childhood or child care programs.
Q4: Is there an age requirement? Must be 18 years or older.
📝 How to Apply (3 Simple Steps)
Submit the application form
Apply through the Career Development Center or partner portals.Prepare basic documents
Such as identification, education records, and a brief statement of interest.Attend an information session or screening interview
Once accepted, you’ll begin paid training and job placement.

🌟 Summary
The CDA Paid Training Program offered through the Career Development Center provides an accessible, financially supported pathway into the early childhood workforce. From paid training to paid job placement—and ongoing support with your CDA application—this program serves as an ideal starting point for anyone committed to a long-term career in early childhood education.
If you're ready to gain skills, earn income, and take the first step toward a recognized professional credential, this program offers the perfect opportunity.