Finding and retaining employees is a challenge for many industries, particularly those with nontraditional work schedules or specialized skill needs. In Lebanon, Missouri, where manufacturing has historically dominated the job market, workforce professionals have been looking for new ways to connect job seekers with unique career opportunities.
In 2023, the Lebanon Job Center took a proactive approach to expanding job opportunities for local residents. Lisa Mizer, Lebanon Job Center Supervisor, and Lori Admire, Benefits Program Associate, explored creative ways to introduce job seekers to nontraditional roles beyond the manufacturing sector.
One standout opportunity emerged when Lori reached out to Missouri River Towing, a company with a unique work schedule that provides long-term career growth. Following a promising conversation, the first hiring event was scheduled in July 2023, marking the beginning of a successful partnership. Since then, the Lebanon Job Center has hosted six additional interview events for Missouri River Towing, helping local job seekers access new career pathways.
A Unique Career Path with Growth and Opportunity
Missouri River Towing offers a distinctive work schedule, with employees working 28 days on and 14 days off, allowing them to earn up to $650 per day while building a long-term career. Employees have the opportunity to advance into higher positions such as pilots and captains, making it an attractive option for job seekers looking for stability and growth.
In addition to providing competitive wages, Missouri River Towing is committed to second-chance hiring, creating employment opportunities for justice-involved individuals. Their willingness to invest in candidates based on core values rather than past experience aligns perfectly with the Central Region’s mission to strengthen communities through workforce development efforts.
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A Game-Changer
Hermann Sand & Gravel and its affiliated company, Missouri River Towing, have significantly benefited from their ongoing collaboration with the Lebanon Job Center. Previously, the company relied on online platforms like Indeed to recruit employees. However, virtual interviews made it difficult to gauge candidates’ work ethic, values, and long-term potential.
That all changed when Kate Engemann, Director of Human Resources for Hermann Sand & Gravel and Missouri River Towing met with Lori Admire and Lisa Mizer.
“Since the first couple of hiring events over a year ago, our retention rate has climbed from 30% to over 90%!” Engemann shared. “We have kept the majority of employees that I have met and hired through the Lebanon Career Center. When we do annual performance reviews, I noticed that most of them are still here, and many have even moved on to more advanced positions.”
The ability to meet and assess potential employees in person has had a transformative impact on their hiring strategy. Engemann has since scheduled three additional hiring events, underscoring the ongoing success of this partnership.
Achieving Full Staffing for the First Time in Years
Following their initial success, Hermann Sand & Gravel and Missouri River Towing have continued to work closely with the Lebanon Job Center to recruit and retain employees. In early 2024, Engemann shared a milestone achievement with the Job Center team:
“I just want to extend a very heartfelt thank you for all of the support that you have given us this year. We have been fully staffed until the end of the season! That hasn’t happened in the entire time I have worked here. When we were giving out our Christmas gifts and bonuses, the large majority that I have recruited throughout the year are still with us. I assembled over 39 boxes for our MRT crew members. That wouldn’t have been possible without your willingness to work with us and help support our company.”
This achievement powerfully demonstrates how workforce development programs can effectively tackle staffing challenges and significantly enhance business operations. Not only that, but it shows the importance of collaboration between Workforce Development and businesses. With the right support, businesses can shift their hiring strategies, improve retention rates, and build a stable workforce.
The Central Workforce Development Region remains committed to providing job seekers with quality career opportunities and helping businesses access top talent. As industries continue to evolve, workforce programs like those offered by the Lebanon Job Center will continue to be an essential resource for both job seekers and employers.
For more information on how your business can partner with the Central Region Job Centers for workforce solutions, find your Central Region Job Center or contact our Business Services representatives.