Strengthening communities through workforce development efforts.
We Are the Central Region
The Central Workforce Development Region encompasses 19 counties throughout mid-Missouri, including Audrain, Boone, Callaway, Camden, Cole, Cooper, Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Howard, Laclede, Maries, Miller, Moniteau, Morgan, Osage, Phelps, Pulaski, and Washington.
The Central Region houses three comprehensive Job Centers, multiple satellite and affiliate locations, an administrative office and a volunteer board all engaged to enhance the regional economy by providing workforce development services and activities for businesses and citizens alike.
What We Offer
Job Seeker Services
Explore numerous opportunities with the Central Workforce Development Region! Our Job Centers offer free services to help you prepare for, find, and secure jobs that match your strengths and goals.
Employer Services
Available at NO cost to you, we offer a variety of employer services, including job matching, consulting, work opportunity tax credits, on-the-job training, incumbent worker training, transition assistance, and more. See full details below.
Central Region Labor Market Overview
The Central Region is comprised of 19 counties. As well as being where the state capital of Jefferson City is located, the region also includes the cities of Columbia and Rolla, which are both home to University of Missouri campuses. Some of the largest employers in the area are health care providers including: Boone Hospital, Phelps County Regional Medical Center, Capitol Region Medical Center and the Fulton State Hospital.
10.7% of Missouri's Employment
Averaged more than 284,800 jobs in 2022
Average annual wages
Central Region population
Success Stories
How WIOA Helped Emma Waters Increase Her Earnings by $20/Hour
Emma Waters used WIOA support to advance from CNA to RN, increasing her earnings by nearly $20/hour.
Congratulations to Lori Admire & Kasey Guthrie on Completing Their Registered Apprenticeship!
Celebrate Lori Admire & Kasey Guthrie’s success in their Registered Apprenticeship for Workforce Development Specialists. Join us in congratulating them!
Glen Farrow Honored as 2024 Employee of the Year at the Lebanon Job Center
Celebrate Glen Farrow, awarded 2024 Employee of the Year by DHEWD, for his outstanding service at the Lebanon Job Center. Congratulations, Glen!
Tune into the podcast
The Workforce Link Podcast with Sundi Jo Graham
The Workforce Link Podcast offers forward thinking conversations for the workforce, linking employers and job seekers to a brighter tomorrow.
Hosted by Sundi Jo Graham from the Central Workforce Development Board, The Workforce Link covers job searching, resume and interview tips, leadership, personal development, and features interviews with industry leaders from the private and public sectors.
Episode 72: Find The Work You’re Wired To Do with Ken Coleman
This podcast with Ken Coleman explores his book “Find the Work You’re Wired to Do”. Learn how to assess your strengths and find a career you’ll love.
Central Region News
CWDB Requesting Proposals for WIOA Service Provider
CWDB is requesting proposals for a provider of WIOA programs and services and One-Operation in nineteen counties of Central Missouri.
Congratulations to Lori Admire & Kasey Guthrie on Completing Their Registered Apprenticeship!
Celebrate Lori Admire & Kasey Guthrie’s success in their Registered Apprenticeship for Workforce Development Specialists. Join us in congratulating them!
Enhancing Personal and Professional Development Goals for 2025
Explore essential strategies for personal and professional development in 2025. Set S.M.A.R.T. goals, learn continuously, and grow your network.
Unlock Your Career Potential Today!
Connect with Us
1107 Kingshighway, Rolla, MO 65401
(573) 426-6030
In accordance with 29 CFR 38.9 (g)(3), Limited English Proficient (LEP) individuals will receive language assistance in all communications of vital information.
EO Officer - Korin Thurman
Click here to contact.