Workforce Development Center
The UAFS Workforce Development Center helps people build practical skills for today’s manufacturing and industrial careers. Through hands-on Professional Skills Training, learners can gain experience in robotics, automation, machining, welding, electrical systems, and industrial maintenance.
Part of the UAFS Center for Economic Development and the Center for Business and Professional Development, the center serves working adults, career changers, job seekers, employees, and employers seeking training aligned with real workplace needs.
Courses are taught on industry-grade equipment and designed to help learners build skills they can use right away.
Professional Skills Training at UAFS
Training is short-term, hands-on, and focused on skills people can use in the workplace.
Training Areas
Robotics, automation, electrical systems, machining, industrial maintenance, and welding
Best For
Adults preparing for new opportunities, employees building job-ready skills, and employers training their teams.
Training Style
Hands-on, instructor-led, and industry-focused
Location
Workforce Development Center on the UAFS campus
What is Professional Skills Training?
Professional Skills Training is a practical way to build work-related skills without enrolling in a degree program.
At the UAFS Workforce Development Center, that means hands-on training in robotics,
automation, machining, welding, electrical systems, and industrial maintenance. Courses
are designed to help you strengthen your current skills, prepare for a new opportunity,
or support your team in meeting changing workplace needs.
These courses do not count toward a degree, but the skills you gain may be considered for prior learning credit where available.
Built with Industry,
For the River Valley
The Workplace Development Center was developed with input from regional manufacturers, so training reflects the skills needed in local workplaces. Fourteen major employers participated in needs assessments, advisory board sessions, and facility planning to help UAFS shape training around real workplace needs.
That connection matters. Manufacturing represents 17.5 percent of employment in the Fort Smith region, more than twice the national average. As companies adopt robotics, automation, smart systems, and other changing technologies, the need for skilled people continues to grow.
The Workforce Development Center helps learners prepare for new opportunities and helps employers build teams ready for today’s workplace.
Request Training for Your Team
Explore Training Areas
The Workplace Development Center offers training in high-demand technical areas used across modern manufacturing and industrial workplaces. View upcoming courses to see current dates, descriptions, and registration details.
Robotics
Learn how to work with industrial robots used in modern manufacturing. Training may include operating ABB and Fanuc robot cells while building practical skills in robot operation, programming, safety, troubleshooting, and system setup.
Automation and Controls
Learn how automated systems help modern equipment, machines, and production lines work together. Training introduces learners to programmable logic controllers, human-machine interfaces, smart sensors, motor controls, and troubleshooting practices used in advanced manufacturing.
Electrical Systems
Build a practical understanding of the electrical systems used in industrial workplaces. Training helps learners work with basic electrical concepts, motor controls, wiring systems, safety practices, and the tools used to test and troubleshoot electrical equipment.
Mechanical Systems and Fluid Power
Learn how mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems support industrial equipment and production processes. Training helps learners understand how common components work together, how to maintain them, and how to recognize issues that can affect performance.
Machining
Build foundational skills used in machine shops and manufacturing settings. Training introduces learners to measurement, blueprint reading, manual and CNC machining, and basic CAD concepts used to create precise parts and support production.
Welding
Gain a practical introduction to welding used in industrial and maintenance settings. Training focuses on safety, equipment, shop practices, welding terminology, and basic welding and cutting techniques.
Help Paying for Workplace Training
Training is an investment, and you may not have to navigate the cost alone. Eligible individuals and employers may qualify for funding or reimbursement to help cover Professional Skills Training at UAFS.
Our team can help you review your goals, explore available options, and determine the best next step.
Build Your Skills or Train Your Team
Whether you are preparing for a new opportunity or helping your team keep pace with changing technology, the Workplace Development Center can help you take the next step.
Explore upcoming Professional Skills Training courses, request training for your organization, or ask about available funding options.