Step Year

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

Enrollment for the Spring 2026 cohort of Step Year is now closed. Fill out the interest form linked below to be alerted when enrollment opens for the Fall 2026 cohort.

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.

Enrollment is closed for the Spring 2026 Step Year cohort. Fill out the form by clicking the button below to receive a notification when enrollment for the Fall 2026 Step Year cohort opens.

INTEREST FORM

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 in June.

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 2025 COHORT SCHEDULE

September 8 – December 11, 2025

Step Year Experience | At WMCAT
Mondays + Thursdays
9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

January – June 2026

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

SPRING 2026 COHORT SCHEDULE

March 2 – May 28, 2026

Step Year Experience | At WMCAT
Mondays + Thursdays
9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

June – November 2026

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

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.