Developing Skills is the role of The Fort Smith Skills Training Center, Bost's vocational division. This program concentrates on developing vocational and work-readiness skills for adults with limitations. The FSSTC provides assessment and training in vocational skills, work habits, physical stamina, peer relations, ability to follow instructions, supervisory relationships, communications, socialization, and other skills important to successful job placement.

FSSTC clients receive job skills training in numerous areas of work secured from local industry such as:

• assembly
• packing
• sorting
• quality control, and
• some prime manufacturing.

The Skills Training Center staff is composed of professionals in fields of disabilities and vocational training. The program emphasizes skills and experiences necessary for job placement in competitive positions in the community.

The Fort Smith Skills Training Center operates on a year-round calendar with the usual hours of 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Additional services include:

• job skills training 
• individual program plans (IPP)
• vocational counseling
• appropriate work habits
• socialization skills
• long-term job skills training and employment for individuals with limited potential for competitive employment
• job coaching
• job placement and follow-up.

The Skills Center serves adults 18 years or older who have developmental disabilities and related handicapping conditions. These include, but are not limited to, intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, physical disabilities, hearing or sight impairments, and learning disabilities.

Referrals are received through the Arkansas State Rehabilitation Services office, Division of Disabilities Services, the court system, and the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) as well as friends, families, advocates, public schools, and individuals who may request services for themselves.

The Fort Smith Skills Training Center
7701South Zero Street
P.O. Box 11495
Fort Smith, AR 72917
Phone: (479) 478-5629
FAX No. 479-478-5692