Robert Klabacka started the National Institute for Concrete Construction in 1959. Since then, Robert's six sons have carried on the family tradition of offering high quality, vocational training programs in a variety of different industries and subjects. Robert Klabacka instilled a number of fundamental principles in his sons that have been the key to the success of the organization. These principles are the motto of the business: Quality, Integrity and Pride.

In 1963, Robert Klabacka opened the Diesel Truck Driver Training School on eighty acres of land about ten miles from Madison, Wisconsin. The organization still maintains its primary office and training facilities at this location.

Associated Training Services came into being as an affiliate of Diesel Truck Driver Training School in 1996. Since its inception, Associated Training Services has expanded its course offering and locations and has become a national organization with Schools in many states. ATS and its network of schools currently maintains school locations in ten states.