Essar Steel Algoma recruiting tradespeople, professionals

NEWS RELEASE

ESSAR STEEL ALGOMA INC.

************************* Essar Steel Algoma expands apprenticeship program

SAULT STE. MARIE, ON (January 19, 2010) - Essar Steel Algoma Inc. announced today that it has expanded its apprenticeship program by forty (40) seats.

In an effort to build the organization’s capability in several key roles, internal and external postings went up today for apprentice applicants in the following trades:

- Electrical maintenance technicians

- Crane repair technicians

- Bricklayers.

Currently 82 individuals are enrolled in Essar’s apprenticeship program in nine trades ranging from bricklayers to mechanical maintenance technicians.

The program is delivered in partnership with Sault College with funding support through the Canadian Steel Trade & Employment Congress (CSTEC) and Human Resources Skills Development Canada (HRSDC).

A further training incentive is provided in the form of a tax credit by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities.

Armando Plastino, chief executive officer at Essar Steel Algoma, emphasized the importance of this training initiative, saying: “A vibrant apprenticeship program helps close the gap between our current organizational capacity and our projected workforce needs. The program pairs the necessary classroom instruction with applied coaching by experienced and knowledgeable tradespeople. This combination of theory and on-the-job training ensures the necessary knowledge transfer occurs.”

An aging demographic and correspondingly strong attrition rate is opening up opportunities for employees to advance internally, and subsequently, vacancies are being created for new employees.

The company recently hired nearly 35 tradespeople and recruiting is ongoing for approximately 75 more trades and professional roles.

Detailed postings outlining entry qualifications for apprentices can be viewed under "Career Opportunities" on the company website.

*************************