Final answer:
After completing the real estate associates program, Sam's next step is to become employed with a licensed brokerage to gain practical experience and comply with regulatory requirements.
Step-by-step explanation:
If Sam wants to trade in real estate after completing the real estate associates program, the next step is to become employed with a licensed brokerage. In many jurisdictions, after completing an education program in real estate, an individual must affiliate with a brokerage that is licensed to trade in real estate.
This step is essential because actual real estate practice often requires mentorship and practical experience that only employment with an experienced brokerage can provide. Once employed, Sam may need to register with a real estate regulatory authority, such as RECA (Real Estate Council of Alberta), and submit necessary documentation, which may include educational transcripts and proof of employment.