Charlene Elston ‘99 had her mind made up in high school as to what career path she wanted to explore. Working with children was her passion and she wanted to pursue a vocation that complemented what she loved.

“I always had a love for families and children,” she says. “I knew the Early Childhood Education program at Mohawk would give me the hands-on experience I was looking for.”

Mohawk’s Early Childhood Education (ECE) program teaches students how to cultivate key milestones in the children they teach such as considering a sense of belonging, engagement and a child’s wellbeing in every stage of development. Students access a living lab that provides a realistic early-year environment for hands-on learning, along with opportunities for specialized placements.

Charlene completed four placements while studying at Mohawk, with different child-care programs. Although she does not directly work in this area now, the experience was what got her the dream job she has today.

Charlene says, “When my present job was created, it required a candidate registered with the College of Early Childhood Educators through the completion of the ECE diploma. I was the only one on my team that had it. I felt like this position was made for me!”

Today, Charlene works as an early-years quality analyst with the City of Hamilton. She enjoys the perfect blend of supporting child care programs, and taking part in professional learning opportunities with fellow educators.

“I enjoy getting out into the field and seeing the positive impacts that the Hamilton Early Years Quality Program has made,” she says. “Visiting child care programs is my favourite part of the job. I love leaving with creations made by the children.”

As one of Mohawk’s Future Ready Premium Employers, the City of Hamilton has a strong relationship with the college. They collaborate in many areas, including applied research, civic and industry projects and social development. Together, they foster a strong workforce and community within all areas of Hamilton.

Charlene also makes the time to collaborate with other educators that work with the City. It brings further joy to see how other ECEs are growing along with the children they work with.

“I enjoy interactions with fellow Early Childhood Educators as they discuss quality goals for their program, as well as further professional development they’d like to pursue,” she says. “I’m proud to work with the child-care programs and educators in the City of Hamilton.”

Along with the growing need for early childhood educators, a lot has changed since Charlene graduated from Mohawk. And that’s a great thing!
She says, “It is exciting to see how much this field has grown. From the first day of school, I learned strategies and I’m still learning today.”

Charlene has some key advice for folks wanting to join the ECE field.

“Have patience, there is so much support,” she says. “The job is worth it. You’re needed, you’re valued, we appreciate you. There are so many possibilities for an ECE graduate in Hamilton.”