The STEPS program provides students with disabilities with paid job readiness training and 180 hours of paid work experience to help them gain the skills to successfully enter the workforce. Despite its title, the program is offered year-round.

To be eligible for the STEPS program, you must be: 

• A student with a disability enrolled in a secondary, post-secondary, or other recognized educational program; and
• Between the ages of 16 and 21; and
• Referred by your educational institution 
  

Please note that males born after January 1, 1960, must be registered with the U.S. Selective Service Program, and any students under 18 years of age must have a work permit. 

The Americans with Disabilities Act defines an individual with a disability as “any person who (i) has a physical or mental impairment with substantially limits one or more major life activities, (ii) has a record of such an impairment, or (iii) is regarded as having such an impairment."

The STEPS program is made possible by the collaborative efforts of the California Department of Rehabilitation, Foundation for California Community Colleges, and the Workforce Investment Board of Tulare County. For more information, please contact Benny Rivera at (559) 733-6730.