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School Works program enables companies to hire more students

Businesses that hire high school/post-secondary students during the school year can apply for wage subsidies through Columbia Basin Trust.
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The School Works program benefited Mike and Lorraine Giesler

Columbia Basin Trust is providing wage subsidies for businesses that hire high school and post-secondary students during the school year. The School Works program offers businesses that use the program subsidies up to $8 per hour for student employment.

“Small businesses, non-profit and First Nations organizations and public bodies in the Basin may apply. Co-op and practicum student positions are also eligible,” said a press release dated Aug. 11.

Lisa Kilpatrick, Columbia Basin Trust Senior Manager, said she is hopeful the program will be a success.

“Through this subsidy, Basin employers will be able to hire first-level apprentices and the apprentices will gain access to local training. If this year works well, we hope to continue to provide this support for apprentices into the future.”

Apprentice programs include construction, heavy duty mechanic and automotive technicians programs.

The program, which intends for the employment to be during a portion or all of the school year, wants to ensure that students gain work experiences in the region, along with education.

Applications to participate in the program as an employer will be available Aug. 13. Applications and more information can be viewed at www.cbt.org/schoolworks2015.