The Autism Training Center was established through the efforts of parents of children with autism throughout West Virginia. Spearheaded by Ruth C. Sullivan, these parents convinced state legislators of their need for intensive, individualized educational and behavioral training for families, educators and other individuals involved with the person with autism. In 1983, the West Virginia Legislature established the Autism Training Center at Marshall University in Huntington.

Since 1983, over 900 families of children with autism have registered for services from the center. In the 90s, the center established two satellite centers, one in Fairmont and the other in Weirton , West Virginia , so that services would be more accessible in the northern part of the state.