Each year, I update my professional bio and always pause at the part where it says, “Rachel Robertson has worked in the field of early childhood for over X years.” I ask myself, is it 20 years, or should I say 25 years now, or am I actually closer to 30 years? This reflection is not because I cannot remember or because it makes me feel old—although it does, a little—but because I feel so fortunate to have had such a long career doing work I love on behalf of children, families, and educators.

Not long ago, I was asked to lead a discussion on career paths in early childhood education. The discussion quickly led to a sharing of personal career paths. Each person’s story was filled with experiences unique to their interests and strengths, including a few setbacks or unexpected events that were eventually turned into opportunity, and all were very purpose-driven. But, the main takeaway was how unique each person’s path was, and how clear it was that no one path, no straight line, no “you must do this” led to a successful career in early education. This reality, unfortunately, is not always well understood by those considering or embarking on a career in this field. It certainly was not to me when I started out as an afterschool aide in high school or spent a gap year as an assistant toddler teacher. 

So, what is a career pathway?