Lipscomb University named Tennessee’s first early childhood education apprenticeship hub to address critical workforce development needs across the state

Innovative Initiative removes financial barriers for aspiring educators to strengthen the early childhood education workforce.

Kim Chaudoin  |  07/07/2025

Lipscomb University has been named by the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD) as the state’s first early childhood education apprenticeship hub. This initiative is in partnership with the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development. This designation positions Lipscomb at the forefront of addressing critical workforce needs in early childhood education while providing aspiring educators with a fully funded pathway to a bachelor’s degree.

The new Lipscomb University Early Childhood Education Apprenticeship Hub, known as Foundations to Futures, is a dual-impact program designed to create a robust pipeline of highly qualified early childhood educators. Through this initiative, students will work as apprentices in early learning settings gaining hands-on experience while earning their undergraduate degree in infant to Grade 3 early education at Lipscomb. The program is fully paid, including tuition and books, for qualifying participants.

Pending final approval by the Tennessee Department of Education and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), the program is projected to launch this fall. Lipscomb’s program is a three-year program with classes offered fully online, allowing students the flexibility to complete the courses at a pace that meets their schedules. Little Wonders Early Learning Center will serve as Lipscomb’s first apprenticeship employer partner, with additional partners being sought across the region.

“From birth to age five, children experience an unparalleled period of brain development and learning. These formative years are critical for building the cognitive, emotional and social foundation that shapes their future success,” said Lipscomb President Candice McQueen. “By equipping early childhood educators with the skills and knowledge they need, we can profoundly impact generations of young learners and ensure they have the strongest start possible. We are grateful to the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development for its significant investment in this important work.”

Research highlights the critical importance of early childhood education in shaping future success. High-quality early childhood programs are linked to improved academic outcomes, better social-emotional development, and long-term career achievement. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services’ Office of the Administration for Children & Families participating in ECE helps children to develop skills that will benefit them in school and in life. Specifically, research from the United States shows that ECE can help children learn the foundational skills for reading, math, self-control and positive relationships.  However, a shortage of well-trained educators has created significant challenges in meeting the growing demand for early learning professionals. According to the Center for the Study of Child Care Employment, only 30 percent of center-based teaching staff nationwide hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.

“This isn’t just an education issue; it’s a workforce issue that impacts every industry,” said TDLWD Commissioner Deniece Thomas. “When parents can’t find reliable and quality childcare, they can’t work. It’s critical that we invest in early educators to strengthen Tennessee’s workforce and the state’s economy."

The program’s apprenticeship model offers a structured “earn while you learn” pathway, combining on-the-job training with formal coursework. Apprentices receive a salary and benefits, practical experience, and mentorship, all while working toward degree attainment and career advancement. This approach benefits both apprentices—through increased earning potential, reduced training costs, and career stability—and employers, who gain access to a skilled, dedicated workforce.

“Lipscomb is a hub for preparing educators to make an impact in early childhood education,” said Leslie Cowell, dean of Lipscomb’s College of Education. “We are excited to partner with local childcare programs to develop future educators who will provide transformative learning experiences for children and families in our community. The goal of this partnership is to build the early childhood education workforce. We want to ensure students not only gain the academic foundation they need but also real-world experience through apprenticeships that prepare them to excel as educators in early learning environments.”

The need for qualified early childhood educators is urgent. A large percentage of children under age six have all available parents in the workforce, increasing the demand for child care. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 4.4% employment growth for preschool teachers between 2023 and 2033, translating to an estimated 23,300 new jobs. However, staffing shortages have led to classroom closures and reduced capacity, directly impacting families and the economy.

Lipscomb University’s College of Education is nationally recognized as one of the top teacher preparation programs in Tennessee and the nation, uniquely positioning it to lead this innovative apprenticeship initiative.

For more information about the Foundations to Futures program or to become an apprenticeship employer partner, contact Leslie Cowell at leslie.cowell [at] lipscomb.edu.