Frequently Asked Questions

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Who can attend the Skill Center programs?

The Skills Center is for anyone who has a disability. We serve people from St. Charles County and surrounding counties. 

Can high school students apply for this program? 

Yes, the Skills Center can accommodate students in high school. Some agencies have funding restrictions for students, but we are currently working with school districts for placement and tuition coverage for fourth or fifth year seniors.  Attending a High School Equivalency Test (HiSET) program is not considered being enrolled in high school.

Does the student need a diploma and/or HiSET?

Employers may require that a student has completed high school or an equivalency prior to employment, but they do not need a diploma or HiSET to enter.

Is there a minimum or maximum age?

Most manufacturers require a person to be 18 in order to work full time. There is no maximum age as long as the person wants to work.

Are there any entrance exams?

We do not have entrance exams, but we do require students to complete a brief trial for each vocational program. The Manufacturing and Hospitality Housekeeping trials take 30 minutes or less to complete on average. If students are unable to successfully complete the trial, they will be provided with resources to improve their performance and return for additional trials in the future.

In order to start the Information Technology program, students must have basic computer skills. This includes utilizing a mouse, using web browsers, creating files, and navigating within the Windows operating system. If students do not have basic computer skills, we encourage them to develop these skills through non-credit classes at area community colleges.

Students are not required to possess prior knowledge in order to start any other programs. However, students must be able to follow directions. They should also understand that stamina and physical tasks will be required by the employer. 

What is the tuition cost?

The tuition cost to participate in the Skills Center is $500 per week/$2,000 average per month. There is no pro-rating for partial weeks. Full tuition funding is available. 

Is tuition paid in full before the individual starts the program?

The current arrangement is for funding agencies or individuals to be billed on a monthly basis at the end of the month for the student’s participation.

How do I get funding for the program?

Funding comes from a variety of sources, including DDRB, Community Opportunities, Workforce Development, DMH, SkillUp, and scholarship dollars. We are in the process of obtaining funding from additional sources. Please call 636-875-5251 for the latest information on funding options.

If an individual starts the program but for some reason does not complete it, are they responsible for the full tuition amount or just an amount for the portions completed?

Individuals will only be billed for the weeks they attended. Individuals must notify the Skills Center in writing if they intend on dropping the class.

How long are the programs?

Most programs are eight weeks. 

What are the hours for the program?

Students participate in daily three-hour classes Monday through Friday. Class times are 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. or 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The duration of the class will vary upon the individualized needs of the student to learn the necessary soft and hard in order to be successful in the chosen employment area.

Are individuals guaranteed a paid position upon successful completion of the program?

While no one can guarantee a job, we do our best to see that our students are prepared for competitive employment. 

For the Manufacturing programs, the Skills Center is working directly with True Manufacturing and Permian Plastics to interview students who successfully complete the coursework. The tasks the students learn in the Skills Center are directly related to the positions. Upon completing the interview process and other pre-employment expectations, we have an agreement with True Manufacturing and Permian Plastics to offer full-time employment to our program graduates. 

For the Midas Hospitality Housekeeping program, students who successfully complete the training and meet all pre-employment requirements will be offered Housekeeper/Room Attendant positions with Midas Hospitality at the Courtyard by Marriott hotel in St. Peters.  There are full- and part-time positions available under this program. 

Is there an attendance policy?

Students are expected to attend the same session every day. The attendance policy is dependent on the length of the program in which the student is enrolled. Absences should be reported to the instructor. 

Is there a dress code?

Students are expected to wear business casual dress if they are enrolled in the Information Technology program. If they are attending the Manufacturing programs, students will be expected to follow the program partner's dress code and shoe policy. Hospitality Housekeeping students are expected to wear a grey collared polo-style shirt and blue or black pants (no sweatpants or workout pants). 

Do students receive other training in addition to their vocational training?

Yes, each student participates in soft skills development for one hour each school day. Students learn and practice a variety of desirable soft skills, including communication, problem solving, dress and appearance, teamwork, and workplace expectations. All material is presented and practiced through the lens of professional work. Students participate in class discussions, partner work, independent work, role play scenarios, and mock interviews.

Does the Skills Center provide job placement services for students?

The Skills Center staff is equipped to assist students with their job search. Services include assistance with searching and applying for jobs, creating a professional resume and cover letter, interviewing skills, professional networking skills, and developing a professional LinkedIn profile. Skills Center staff members maintain regular outreach with companies throughout the St. Louis region to encourage employers to place Skills Center graduates.

When should I apply to the Skills Center?

The Skills Center has an open admissions schedule, with multiple start dates throughout the year. There is currently no application deadline.

Is the Skills Center a for-profit school?

No, we are a 501c3 nonprofit organization.

Where is the Skills Center located?

Our main office is located at 2026 Trade Center Drive. This is in the I-70 Trade Park on the south side of Interstate 70 off Veteran’s Memorial Parkway in St. Peters. An annex office located at 2050 Trade Center Drive is home to our Competitive Employment staff offices and our I.T. program. 

Is the Skills Center accredited?

Yes, all programs offered at the Skills Center are accredited by CARF International, which assured our commitment to program and service quality with a focus on the satisfaction and success of those we serve.