JOHNSTOWN, PA — In a significant step towards enhancing early childhood education, the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry‘s Hiram G. Andrews Center (HGAC) has unveiled a new diploma program aimed at preparing individuals for careers in early childhood education and care. Launching in January 2025, this 12-month program is set to provide future educators with comprehensive training and practical experience, addressing the growing demand for qualified professionals in this critical field.
The Early Childhood Education diploma program is meticulously designed to cover essential areas such as child development, health and safety, and curriculum planning. Students will accumulate 1,425 clock hours of instruction across three terms, earning 45 semester credit hours, which include over 480 hours of hands-on experience with young children. This rigorous curriculum ensures graduates are well-prepared to obtain the nationally recognized Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential.
L&I Secretary Nancy A. Walker emphasized the program’s impact, stating, “This new program at HGAC will help meet the growing demand for qualified early childhood educators in Pennsylvania. By providing high-quality training and practical experience, we’re ensuring that our youngest learners receive the best possible care and education, and that we make a positive impact on the lives of young children and their families.”
Graduates will be qualified for various entry-level positions within the Pennsylvania Early Childhood Career Pathway, such as childcare aides, special education aides, and Early Head Start teachers. With small class sizes, capped at ten students, the program ensures personalized attention and effective learning experiences.
HGAC, established in 1959 and operated by the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR), is renowned for offering barrier-free education and job-readiness programs. The institution is committed to serving individuals with diverse backgrounds and abilities, providing them opportunities to thrive in the workforce.
Jill Moriconi, Director of the Commonwealth Technical Institute at HGAC, shared her enthusiasm for the program, stating, “At CTI at HGAC, we are focused on building programs and collaborations that meet the needs of both Pennsylvania job seekers and employers. After extensive planning, we are very excited to offer a new training opportunity that creates a career path toward competitive, integrated, and stable employment for our CTI graduates.”
Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration has prioritized workforce development and services for individuals with disabilities. The governor’s recent budget allocations reflect this commitment, with substantial investments in job training, career and technical education, and vocational rehabilitation programs. These initiatives aim to ensure that all Pennsylvanians, including those with disabilities, have the resources to achieve independence and success in their chosen fields.
The Early Childhood Education program is open to individuals with a high school diploma or GED, subject to passing a criminal background check and meeting health requirements. Prospective students and their families are encouraged to explore this opportunity by visiting the HGAC/CTI campus or contacting the center directly for more information by calling 1-800-762-4211 or 814-255-8200.
With the support of state and federal funding, including contributions from the U.S. Department of Education, the program is poised to make a significant impact on Pennsylvania’s educational landscape, fostering a new generation of educators equipped to meet the needs of young learners across the state.
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