Career Development Center
We help those who aspire to work with young children in New York State explore and pursue their career goals — whether they are seeking their first job or credential in early childhood education or have years of experience.
Our work is supported by the New York Early Childhood Professional Development Institute at the City University of New York.
Get in touch
New York State
*This phone number accepts voicemails and text messages. For a swifter response, please email the Career Development Center at careeradvisor@earlychildhoodny.org or include your email address in your text message.
Meet our team
To learn more about our team, please visit our staff page.
What we do
Higher Education
Discover early childhood degree programs, certifications, and credentials
Learn moreWhere to find us
Select your regional Career Development Center.
We have Career Development Centers in all 10 economic development regions of New York State. Select the county you most often work, or plan to work in to help us match you with your regional team. We'll remember your selection for the next time you visit.
Featured programs
Early Childhood Workforce Scholarships
Do you work in an early childhood center? Would you like to earn a credential, certificate, two year, four year or graduate degree? Fill out our Scholarship Application to make an appointment with an early childhood Career Advisor to review your eligibility for one or more scholarships.
The Early Childhood NYC Apprenticeship Program
Are you ready to kickstart your career and industry approved experience while earning a stipend? Join our apprenticeship program today and support infants, toddlers, and families of NYC! You’ll get the chance to learn and work in the field, building valuable skills that will set you up for success.
NYC Public Schools Family Child Care Network Project
The Early Childhood Career Development Center is working with NYC Public Schools to support qualified family childcare providers to get a college credit-bearing CDA.
The Early Childhood Work Readiness Project
Are you under 25, looking for employment and hoping to work with young children? The NY Early Childhood Work Readiness Program is for you! Join the program to get the support and services you need to prepare you for a job as an assistant teacher, at no cost to you.
The Early Childhood Education Employment Network
The Early Childhood Career Center has established an ECE Employment Network to connect employers and job seeking professionals at all levels. Apply to connect with one of our advisors.
CDA Completion Program
Do you have a CDA Certificate but need your CDA Credential? Do you need support putting together your portfolio or preparing for the CDA Exam? This CDA completion program is for you!
Upcoming events
2025 Cross Regional Career Conversations
The series runs from January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025
2025 Career Conversations
The series runs from February 3, 2025 to December 31, 2025
DOL, Exhibit at the Central NY & Mohawk Valley Virtual Career Fair
What our community says
Hear from early childhood professionals who have experienced the impact of our Career Development Center.