This release was issued under a previous government.

The program is designed to benefit students seeking work experience and employers who can offer support.

“Through STEP, our government is helping open doors for students to gain valuable work experience. At the same time, we’re supporting employers who hire students. This is especially important during these challenging times.”

Christina Gray, Minister of Labour

“I want to ensure that local employers know how the program works and can make informed decisions for their organization. STEP positions will be fairly distributed across sectors and across the province, and that is why I’m encouraging eligible employers to apply so that Red Deer students can benefit from this excellent opportunity.”

Kim Schreiner, MLA for Red Deer-North

Information sessions are being held across the province, and provide interested employers with information on eligibility criteria and the application process for STEP. Employers can apply for STEP until February 29, 2016. Application forms are available online at AlbertaCanada.com/STEP.

Sessions in central Alberta have already been held in communities such as Wainwright, Rocky Mountain House, Innisfail, Vermilion, Lloydminster, Edson, Jasper, Hinton, Red Deer, Olds, Lacombe and Drayton Valley.

Upcoming sessions in this area include Blackfalds – February 25

Additional locations and dates may be added in the near future.

STEP will provide employers who hire students with a wage subsidy of $7 an hour for work opportunities between four and 16 weeks. STEP positions will be distributed fairly across sectors and across the province. Students must be in high school or post-secondary and returning to school full-time in the fall.

For more information about STEP webinars or upcoming presentations, employers can sign up for an email subscription service at ABWorkforceInfo.com/subscribe.