CBT’s School Works Program aims to create 900 new jobs

CBT has announced its new School Works Program as part of a $3.5 million commitment to increase employment opportunities for students in the Basin over the next three years.

This pilot program will provide an $8/hour wage subsidy to encourage small businesses, non-profit, First Nation and public sector organizations in the Columbia Basin to provide part-time employment for full-time high school and post-secondary students in the Basin during the school year.

“The School Works Program benefits Basin-based students by encouraging small businesses and organizations in the region to hire students during the school year,” CBT President and CEO Neil Muth said in a statement. “This new program will complement our existing Summer Works program creating valuable work experience and strengthening the Basin labour force.”

CBT anticipates the Summer Works and School Works programs will create up to 900 student jobs over the next three years. Both programs will be administered by College of the Rockies with the first School Works application intake in December 1, 2011 and the next Summer Works intake in February 2012.

CBT delivers economic, social and environmental benefits to the residents of the Columbia Basin. Check www.cbt.org for more information about this program or call 1-800-505-8998.