Learn about the Student Training and Employment Program (STEP) into the Trades program

What is STEP into the Trades?  

The STEP into the Trades pilot program helps high school students earn a wage while gaining work experience in a trade, prior to becoming a registered apprentice. This work experience can also be used as credits toward high school graduation. 

For summer 2026, students will gain job experience in 1 or more of the following trades: 

• Construction electrician
• Carpentry
• Heavy equipment technician
• Welding

Eligibility 

You must:  

• be 16 years of age or older as of June 10, 2026;
• be a Yukon resident;
• be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident;
• be legally entitled to work in Canada; and
• have attended a Yukon high school full-time for at least 1 semester in the 2025–26 school year. 

You cannot: 

• already be employed with the company; or
• be a member of the employer or direct supervisor’s immediate family. 

Wage 

You'll earn minimum wage, although employers can pay more. 

2026 important dates 

• April 24, 2026: Deadline for students to apply
• May 4 to 29, 2026: Employers shortlist and interview applicants
• June 1 to 5, 2026: Last week for employers to make their job offers and notify students who were not successful this year
• June 2026: Students can begin their STEP into the Trades jobs following the last day of the 2025–26 school year
• August 2026: Students must complete their STEP into the Trades jobs before the 2026–27 school year begins 

Location of work 

Students will be able to work for a Yukon-based business in Whitehorse or Dawson this summer. 

How to apply 

Applications will be available on or after March 30, 2026. 

Ask for an application package, including job details, from your high school’s: 

• shop teacher; or
• guidance counsellor. 

Deadline 

The application deadline is April 24, 2026.