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Central Region News & Updates
Discover the latest insights and developments in workforce initiatives across the Central Workforce Development Region.
Walk-In-Wednesdays Brings 57 Job Seekers and 9 Employers Together in Columbia for April Hiring Event
The Columbia Job Center hosted its April Walk-In-Wednesdays hiring event, connecting 57 job seekers with 9 local employers for on-the-spot interviews and real hiring conversations in Columbia, Missouri.
Veteran and Spouse Hiring Fair Connects 42 Job Seekers with Missouri Employers
The Columbia Job Center and Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital hosted a Veteran and Spouse Hiring Fair on April 21, 2026, connecting 42 job seekers — including 32 veterans — with regional employers in Columbia, Missouri.
Pulaski County Maintains Work Ready Community Status
Pulaski County Clerk Dave Ernst accepted the award on behalf of the county, presented by COPIC Executive Director Trish Rogers, recognizing maintained Certified Work Ready Community status for Program Year 2025.
Episode 81: Why Your Emotions Are Blocking Your Job Search Success
Your resume might not be the problem. In Episode 81 of The Workforce Link Podcast, we break down how anxiety and self-doubt quietly sabotage your job search and what you can do about it.
Missouri Workforce Update: February 2026 Jobs Data Shows Shifts Across Industries
Missouri lost 8,600 jobs in February 2026, while the unemployment rate remained steady at 3.9 percent, reflecting shifts across key industries.
Lebanon Job Center Supports Student Interviews at Lebanon High School
Lebanon Job Center staff worked with 45 Lebanon High School seniors on April 9 and 10, providing mock interviews and real-world guidance to help students prepare for employment and future career opportunities.
Walk-In-Wednesdays Hiring Event Returns April 15 in Columbia
The Columbia Job Center will host Walk-In-Wednesdays on April 15, bringing 13 employers and job seekers together for on-the-spot interviews and local hiring opportunities.
Students Explore Career and Volunteer Opportunities at Wonderland Camp
Youth participants recently joined Paula Pogue of the Central Workforce Development Region for a guided tour and information session at Wonderland Camp near Rocky Mount, Missouri — one of mid-Missouri’s most unique nonprofits serving individuals with disabilities for more than 50 years.
How a WIOA Youth Program Helped One Missourian Launch a Law Enforcement Career
Austin Harris was working at Walmart and ready for something more. With support from Central Missouri workforce staff and funding through WIOA, he completed law enforcement training at the Missouri Sheriffs’ Association Academy — and found a career he loves.
Walk-In-Wednesdays Launch Strong in Columbia with 63 Job Seekers and 13 Employers
The Columbia Job Center kicked off Walk-In-Wednesdays with 63 job seekers and 13 employers, showing strong demand for in-person hiring events.
Central Workforce Development Region Featured in Columbia Metro Rotary Club Newsletter
The Central Workforce Development Region was featured in the Columbia Metro Rotary Club newsletter, highlighting how staff support job seekers, employers, and veterans across the region.
Columbia Job Center Connects Battle High School Students to Career Exploration
Students at Battle High School in Columbia explored future careers through virtual reality on March 17. Columbia Job Center staff shared hands-on career tools and workforce services to help students plan their next steps after graduation.
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Episode 78: A Fresh Start for Your Career and Workforce Planning
The new year often brings pressure to have clear answers about work and career goals. This episode explores how to start fresh with intention, focus on clarity over urgency, and take meaningful next steps in career and workforce planning.
Episode 77: The Brain Science Behind Getting Things Done at Work
Learn the brain science behind accountability at work. This Workforce Link Podcast episode explains why some employees excel and how all Missouri job seekers and employers can build stronger habits.
Episode 76:Career Shifts: When to Move On and How to Do It Well
Discover the three cognitive habits that make people more accountable and productive at work. Learn how neuroscience supports better team performance.