MEDIA CONTACT:
Kenyon “KJ” Askew, Jr.
Director, Marketing & Strategic Engagement
klaskew736@nashcc.edu
252-451-8235

Nash CC Offers Another Free Early Childhood Workforce Academy

ROCKY MOUNT, North Carolina (August 3, 2026) – Individuals interested in beginning a career in early childhood education can gain the training and credentials needed to enter the workforce at no cost through Nash Community College's upcoming Early Childhood Workforce Ready Academy.

The academy will run Sept. 14 through Oct. 8, with in-person classes held Monday through Thursday from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at NCC.

Funded through grant support, the academy is free for eligible participants, with tuition and textbook rental costs fully covered.

Participants who successfully complete the academy will have the opportunity to earn the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential while completing several state-required early childhood trainings designed to prepare individuals for employment in licensed childcare programs. Participants will also receive CPR and First Aid certification.

“This academy provides a direct pathway for individuals who have an interest in working with children but may not know where to begin,” said Jodi York, early childhood education instructor at NCC and facilitator for the academy. “By removing the financial barrier and bringing the necessary training together into one program, we can help participants gain the credentials and confidence they need to take that first step into the early childhood workforce.”

The academy is designed for individuals entering the early childhood field as well as current child care employees who need to earn their North Carolina Early Childhood Credential.

Throughout the four-week academy, participants will learn from experienced NCC faculty, complete required training and explore career pathways available within early childhood education.

The initiative also supports an important regional workforce need by helping prepare qualified professionals to work in licensed child care programs. Access to a strong early childhood workforce benefits not only children and families, but also employers and the broader community by supporting the availability of quality child care.

Participants in the Early Childhood Workforce Ready Academy will receive:

• Tuition and textbook rental at no cost for eligible participants
• An opportunity to earn the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential
• State-required early childhood training
• CPR and First Aid certification
• Career pathway exploration in early childhood education

Space in the academy is limited, and interested individuals are encouraged to register early. Registration is available through NCC’s online registration system on the college’s website through FundFive.

For additional information, contact Jodi York at jryork519@nashcc.edu or 252-451-8317.

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About Nash Community College 
Nash Community College’s mission is to provide an affordable educational environment which prepares students for university transfer and rewarding careers. Through quality instruction and services, technology, work force development, and community partnerships, Nash Community College provides lifelong learning opportunities to individuals, communities, and organizations. Nash Community College is a public community college in Nash County, North Carolina. It is part of the North Carolina Community College System.