With a generous philanthropic investment from the Northpine Foundation, Wesley is proud to launch the Skills Training and Employment Pathways (STEP) program, a new three-year initiative that will help Government-Assisted Refugees (GARs) in Hamilton, Brantford, and surrounding communities secure meaningful, sustainable employment.

STEP is designed to strengthen economic integration and create brighter futures for newcomer families and the communities they now call home.

Building on Wesley’s extensive experience supporting GARs, STEP integrates employment services directly into the settlement journey. The program identifies employment-ready newcomers early, provides tailored employment preparation and training, connects participants with employers, and offers ongoing support to promote long-term success in the workforce.

A key focus of STEP is creating pathways into skilled trades and other in-demand employment sectors across Hamilton and the surrounding region, helping newcomers access opportunities that match their abilities while addressing local workforce needs.

STEP is being delivered as part of a collaborative initiative involving Wesley and other Refugee Assistance Program (RAP) service providers across Ontario, creating opportunities to share learning and strengthen employment outcomes for Government-Assisted Refugees.

The program also brings together key sector partners to provide specialized expertise. Skilled Trades Prep Inc. (STP) will support refugees pursuing careers in the skilled trades through guidance on trade qualification and recognition of prior experience, apprenticeship navigation, Skilled Trades Ontario application processes, and relevant training and certification pathways. McMaster University leads the program’s evaluation, helping measure outcomes, identify promising practices, and generate evidence that can inform future newcomer employment initiatives and broader sector advancement.

Access to STEP is provided through referrals from Wesley’s Newcomer Programs, enabling eligible participants to be identified early and supported through a coordinated pathway from settlement to employment.

>>> We are currently hiring a Program Manager, as well as Employment Case Managers for the STEP program. Please check Wesley’s careers page for job postings.