S.T.E.P. Program
The S.T.E.P. (Skills Training and Employment Pathways) Program is built on the concept of transferring classroom learning into high-impact internship experiences. The program's mission is to equip students with the skills and experience needed to graduate workforce ready. The program emphasizes the idea that learning is most effective when students can apply their knowledge and skills in real-world workplace environments. By enrolling in the business internship course, students can apply both technical and soft skills, including communication, teamwork, leadership, project and time management, reliability, and problem-solving, in real work environments. This approach allows students to demonstrate readiness while enabling employers to evaluate students who are prepared to contribute from day one.
The program includes ongoing support from educators, career advisors, and workforce professionals, along with career preparation activities such as resume and cover letter development, interview coaching, and workplace simulations. These supports ensure students are well-prepared, confident, and aligned with employer expectations. In partnership with the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce, students can also earn the ACT® WorkKeys® National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC®), a nationally recognized credential measuring essential workplace skills.
The program brings together a network of local employers committed to offering internship opportunities that link academic preparation with real-world professional practice. Here are the primary benefits of effective internships for both employers and students:
The S.T.E.P. Program strengthens workforce development by creating a pipeline of credentialed, motivated, and work-ready talent while providing employers with access to students who are prepared to learn, adapt, and add value. For more information about the S.T.E.P. Program, please contact Dr. Brian Matthews at bmatthews@tamut.edu.