Since the signing of the National Framework Agreement between Human Resource Development Canada (HRDC) and the Assembly of First Nations on January 23, 1996, and the Regional Bilateral Agreement signed April 21, 1997, First Nations have had control over Aboriginal training and employment services.

Prior to April 1, 1996, HRDC funds were administered through the Central Interior Aboriginal Management Board for the southern Shuswap area. Today, the Shuswap Training & Employment Program (STEP) serves the Shuswap communities that belong to the Shuswap Native Tribal Council (SNTC).

The STEP Board is accountable to the SNTC Council of Chiefs for any STEP regional activities within the SNTC service area, and is accountable to the Chief and Council of individual participating communities for STEP activities that have a direct impact on local community members.

Participation in STEP is also open to Aboriginal individuals and organizations not affiliated with SNTC.