Austin Harris knew he wanted more than just a job. While working at Walmart, he felt unfulfilled and ready for a different path. With encouragement from his direct supervisor, he connected with the WIOA Out-of-School Youth program in Central Missouri and took the...
The Central Workforce Development Region was recently featured in The Metro Memo, the weekly newsletter of the Columbia Metro Rotary Club. The feature followed a recent presentation to Rotary members and highlighted the region’s role in connecting job seekers and...
Michael Casady, a United States Air Force Veteran who served as a Staff Sergeant (SSGT), was referred to the Columbia Job Center by the VA on September 9, 2025. He arrived for his scheduled appointment the very next day and was enrolled in the Wagner-Peyser...
Thomas Kusick, a Missouri Army National Guard Veteran and Combat Engineer who served in Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, arrived at the Columbia Job Center on January 9, 2025, seeking resume assistance and job search support. After completing the...
After years of dedicated military service, transitioning to civilian employment can feel like navigating unfamiliar territory. For Nathan Frock, that transition became a success story built on determination, the right support, and a willingness to stay engaged every...
Transitioning from military service to civilian employment can feel overwhelming. For many Veterans, finding a job that values their skills and offers long-term stability takes time, guidance, and the right support. For Mary Hatchett, that support came through the...