Students looking for summer employment can now turn to the Summer Jobs Service for assistance.

Although staff of the program has been working behind the scenes since January to get things ready, the Summer Jobs Service officially kicked off Friday with a ribbon cutting ceremony at Algonquin College in the Ottawa Valley, which administers the program with the support of Employment Ontario.

This marks the 15th year for the program, which is available to students from 15 to 30 who are returning to school in the fall and provides a wage subsidy to employers across Renfrew County who hire students.

It is expected the provincially-funded Summer Jobs Service will help more than 400 students find work while supporting approximately 150 employers, noted Jamie Bramburger, the college's manager of community and student affairs.

Although the program supports other Employment Ontario offices in Arnprior, Renfrew, Eganville, Barry's Bay and CFB Petawawa, room 215 at the college serves as the hub, he added.

There are many ways for students and employers to access the program, from visiting the main office, applying online, phoning or visiting any Employment Ontario officers in Renfrew County to complete an application, explained Cathy Yantha, Summer Jobs Service co-ordinator.

Program staff supports students who are applying for jobs, updating their resumes and cover letters, accessing job postings for summer employment and preparing for interviews.

Sandra Gapp, representing the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities, read a letter from Minister Glen Murray congratulating the college for running the centre and providing all of the services under one roof and helping students find jobs that will showcase their strengths and talents.

Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke MPP John Yakabuski was on hand to celebrate the start of the program, which officially runs from now until August. He credited the ministry for providing a $2 subsidy for businesses, noting it can be the difference between getting involved with the program not. He also praised the program staff for the work it does to ensure the right student is matched with the right employer to ensure a pleasant experience for all involved.

Mr. Yakabuski also stressed the importance of the partnership aspect of the program, which he believes contributes to the program's success.

Louise Hermitte, owner of SpeedPro Signs Plus, has been an employer involved in the program since 1997 hiring a summer student each year. She said it is a great program that works well for the business and students. The students get to develop their skills of dealing with the public and getting hands on experience. As a small business owner, the subsidy is also helpful, she added.

For more information about the program call 613-735-4700 ext. 2814 or visit www.algonquincollege.com/employment ontario.

Tina Peplinskie is a Daily Observer multimedia journalist