After a successful first run of the reintroduced Summer Temporary Employment Program (STEP), the Alberta government is introducing a new initiative: Future Ready.

Minister of Labour, Christina Gray, announced the new initiative during her update on STEP on October 20, saying the government is taking measures to prepare Albertans for the workforce and changing economy.

"We all know that this next generation will graduate into a different economy," said Gray. "We want to ensure that they have the skills to be successful in traditional or new careers so that they can contribute to the economic and social well-being of all Albertans."

Kindergarten to Grade 12 students will benefit from this program with new programming and school curriculum's.

The Government of Alberta is currently reviewing the Alberta curriculum and has put out a survey to incorporate your feedback into its development.

Future Ready will also provide opportunities for adults to learn new skills they can apply to the job market.

"We also know that many of today's adults are retraining for new fields and industries. We have a vision that every Albertan today and in the future is prepared to take their place in Alberta's new economy."

As for STEP, the new program's inaugural year was a success with approximately 2,700 job positions approved. 

With this year being the first year that small business employers were included in the program, Gray said it benefited the employees, but the businesses and communities as well.

For more on STEP and Future Ready, click here.