Introduction
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, Kamloops, Little Shuswap, Neskonlith, North Thompson, Skeetchestn, Spallumcheen 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.

Contact Us...         

Clorinda Sasakamoose

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Debi Stewart

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Bernadine Edwards