Step Year

"I don't know" is a good place to start.

Enrollment for the Fall 2026 cohort of Step Year is open! Find enrollment information and the tour request form below.

Step Year at WMCAT was specifically designed to help you find a career or educational path that’s right for you. If you’re ready to take the next step, but aren’t sure what you want to do or would like more support navigating, we’re here to help.

Step Year is a unique mix of college and career exploration, self-discovery, and connections to employment pathways in a variety of sectors. The program is tuition-free and is open to young adults ages 18-24 who have a high school diploma or GED and live in Kent County.

By the end of the program you’ll have a plan in place for your next steps and will take action toward whatever’s next – whether that be college, a trade certificate, job placement with growth opportunities, or maybe something you haven’t thought of yet.

Questions? Contact Program Manager Rosie Runals.

Applications

Applications for the Fall 2026 Step Year cohort are due Monday, August 17, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.

After submitting your application, you will receive an email to sign up for a virtual interview-style meet + greet. You will be notified of acceptance into the cohort on August 28.

Questions? Contact Program Manager, Workforce Development, Rosie Runals at rosie.runals@wmcat.org.

APPLY NOW

Step Year Details

Stipends

Those enrolled in Step Year will receive attendance-based stipends up to $1200 at the rate of $50 per programming day attended. Participants will be paid via check in three installments with the final check being mailed at the conclusion of weekly programming days.

Eligibility

– Be a young adult ages 18-24
– Have a high school diploma or GED
– Haven’t earned a Bachelor’s Degree
– Live in Kent County

Program Schedule

FALL 2026 COHORT SCHEDULE

September 10 – December 10, 2026

Step Year Experience | At WMCAT
Mondays + Thursdays
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 a.m.

January – June 2027

Step Year Check-Ins | Location announced monthly
Once a month; times vary

SPRING 2027 COHORT
Enrollment Open Date TBA

Tour Step Year at WMCAT

Get a feel for Step Year by taking a tour of WMCAT! Meet Program Manager, Workforce Development, Rosie, see the space, and see if Step Year at WMCAT is the right fit for you. Please fill out the form below to schedule a tour.