STEP - Shuswap Training and Employment Program

Since the signing of the National Framework Agreement between Human Resource Development Canada (HRDC) and the Assembly of First Nations in 1996, and the Regional Bilateral Agreement signed in 1997, First Nations have had control over aboriginal training and employment services in BC.

The Shuswap Training & Employment Program (STEP) administers training and employment programs for 10 Shuswap communities and surrounding areas within the southern interior.

STEP has established a Board of Directors made up of one representative from each participating Shuswap community: Adams Lake, Bonaparte, High Bar, Tk'emlups, Little Shuswap, Neskonlith, Simpcw, Skeetchestn, Splatsin and Whispering Pines/Clinton Indian Bands.

Program Objectives

The main objective of STEP is, through our programs, to provide: work experience, training (on and off-site) and counselling to the long term unemployed, youth, women, persons with special needs, and those workers threatened with unemployment.

To achieve these objectives, STEP offers a variety of assistance to employers/sponsors including: program information, proposal review, financial assistance and program/training evaluation. STEP works closely with employers/sponsors from the onset of a training initiative through to its completion.

Through funding partnerships with HRDC, STEP also oversees three Aboriginal Employment Services (AES) offices throughout the Interior.

Individuals requiring services can contact the nearest AES office where trained counsellors are prepared to assist with a wide range of employment services including: one-on one counselling, career assessment tools, referrals to employment or other community services, resource library, and a variety of employment related workshops.

Employer Services offered include:

Job board advertising, screening and referral services, access to wage subsidies, and client support.

Scholarship/Bursary Program

Please print and fill out the following application:
Scholarship/Bursary Program Application

Clorinda Sasakamoose, Progam Manager

Clorinda has managed the Shuswap Training & Employment Program since 2005. Her duties include budgeting, revision of funding proposals, and the supervision of contracts for Employment Services for the SNTC member communities along with urban residents.

Debi Stewart, Program Development Worker

Debi is responsible for the preparation and administration of STEP funding contracts, assisting in program development, delivery and promotion, and the preparation and presentation of reports.

Bernadine Edwards, Administrative Support Worker

Bernadine provides office support to the STEP staff, including clerical, office coordination and data managment, directing inquires to the appropriate resource, and providing information regarding STEP programs and policies.