Student Training and Employment Program (STEP)

Finding motivated talent while keeping payroll costs manageable can be a challenge for Yukon employers, especially during busy seasons or project-based work. The Student Training and Employment Program (STEP) creates a practical way for businesses to bring post-secondary students onto their teams, while offering students meaningful, paid work tied to their field of study. Delivered by the Government of Yukon’s Department of Education, the program focuses on real workplace experience rather than short-term placements.

Through STEP, eligible Yukon businesses can offer students several hundred hours of paid employment at competitive hourly rates that rise as a student progresses through their education. This structure makes it easier to attract capable candidates while ensuring they are fairly compensated for their skills and experience. For employers, the program helps offset staffing costs and supports workforce planning by providing reliable, job-ready students who can contribute to day-to-day operations or special projects.

The program is open to businesses across various industries that maintain an active presence in Yukon and are able to provide supervised, skill-building work opportunities. STEP is especially useful for employers looking to develop future talent, test potential long-term hires, or strengthen ties with the local education community. Business owners interested in hiring students through this program may want to explore the full details to see how STEP could fit their staffing and training needs.