Building a Future for Childcare and Working Families in Pierce County

By investing in childcare workers, we’re investing in stronger families, healthier communities, and a workforce system that works for everyone

by SARAH GRAY

TACOMA, WA (September 19, 2025) — More than a dozen partners from across Pierce County and western Washington gathered for a community roundtable with representation from Governor Bob Ferguson’s office, including Heather Hudson, Deputy Director of Childcare, Education, Workforce, and Labor. The group included employers, unions, workforce and education leaders, and members of the Pierce County Labor Community Services Agency (PCLCSA) board.

This gathering marked an exciting step forward in shaping a shared vision: creating a center for childcare, workforce development, and an accessible space to support the needs of working families in Pierce County.

Photo: Pierce County CLC

A Vision for the Space

The conversation began with a tour of the building—once the Willard Early Learning Center. Together, participants imagined what it could become: a hub that blends childcare, workforce training, and support for the community.

This facility has the potential to serve as both a resource for parents and a pathway for the next generation of skilled childcare providers. By housing training spaces for partners and affiliates, it will strengthen career pipelines in the trades—including childcare itself.

Addressing the Realities Families Face

Ray Dumas, Cement Masons & Plasterers Local 528 Vice President & Legislative Affairs Director. Photo: Pierce County CLC

Transportation, long or inflexible childcare hours, and availability remain major hurdles for families. Cost is another pressing issue—parents in Washington now pay 40% more annually for daycare than they did a decade ago.

The roundtable explored ways to collaborate on programming that eases the stress on both parents and providers. Solutions include:

• Expanding childcare access with living-wage jobs and training pathways.
• Partnering with nonprofits to deliver business management education and innovative operational tools.
• Building a peer network for providers to share advice, learning, and support.

Growing the Next Generation of Childcare Professionals

Participants emphasized the importance of not just filling jobs, but creating strong, sustainable career pathways. PCLCSA is committed to offering living-wage opportunities while equipping local childcare professionals with training, mentorship, and growth opportunities.

By investing in childcare workers, we’re investing in stronger families, healthier communities, and a workforce system that works for everyone.

What’s Next

The Pierce County Central Labor Council and PCLCSA are moving forward with plans to purchase the former Willard Early Learning Center in East Tacoma. We look forward to continuing this conversation with our partners, allies, and new friends of Labor as we build a stronger future for working families in Pierce County.

Sarah Gray is Communications Director for the Pierce County Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO. For more on the Childcare and Workforce Hub, visit PCLCSA’s Childcare page.