The Skill Center Program is designed to work with individuals who have disabilities make good decisions about career choices. Interest inventories, achievement tests, aptitude tests, situational and vocational assessments are used to learn about careers and determine if the Skill Center student is prepared and able to work and/or train in their interest area. Work habits, personality traits and attitudes are also evaluated as they relate to employment.
Recommendations are made and include viable career choices, educational supports and/or technology that will assist the student in future training and/or employment. The Skill Center is CARF. accredited (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities).
Inquiries and additional information can be received by contacting Clay Farebrother, Program Director and Manager at clay.farebrother@kirkwood.edu or 319-398-5454.
SERVICES PROVIDED
Assessment Inventories, Achievement and Aptitude Tests
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Assessment inventories, achievement and aptitude tests are given to Skill Center students to help determine jobs that match the student's personality types, physical capability, learning styles, and educational levels. Other factors such as occupational demands, earnings, employment outlooks, career pathways and typical tasks are analyzed.
Business Occupations Evaluations
Students will explore and be assessed for skills used in occupations where clerical, computer, record keeping, sales, customer service and communication skills are needed. |
Computer Occupations Evaluations
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Various computer occupations can be explored depending on the Skill Center student's interests. Some of the job titles available for exploration are computer support specialist, computer programmer, computer repair technician, and LAN administration. The student will be able to try tasks related to these career areas and learn about required jobs skills, education and the availability of jobs.
Service Occupations Evaluations
Students will investigate and be assessed in skills used in numerous service occupations such as food service, health care, human service, child care, floriculture and small animal care. |
Trades and Industry Evaluations
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Students will be assessed for skills used in careers that involve auto collision, mechanics, welding, construction trades/management, design (architectural/mechanical), electronics, industrial maintenance, telecommunications and fire science.
Transition Service and Evaluations
An assessment is made of the Skill Center student's needs in order to achieve success in future training programs. The individual's learning style, supports necessary for academic success, and assistive technology needs are reported. Barriers are identified and preparation is made for receiving the recommended supports while the student is enrolled in a training program and Kirkwood Community College. Assistance with applying for accommodations through the Americans with Disability Act is given. The student becomes aquainted with academic information program requirements, expectations, college facilities, financial information, student services and other resources. |
Job Seeking / Job Readiness
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Students can prepare a resume, fill out application forms, practice interviewing and be assisted in identifying places where they could use the skills demonstrated in the vocational assessment. |
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