Find the Right Career for You

About Us

Strengthening Communities Through Workorce Development Efforts

We’re here for you at every step of your career journey, whether you’re landing your first job or switching to a new career pathway. Our personalized assistance helps tailor solutions to fit your needs. 

Our Services

Job Center Services

Our Job Centers offer free services to help you discover the right career path. We provide assessments to identify your skills and interests, and job training to prepare you for a fulfilling career. Visit us to explore various opportunities and find the perfect fit for your goals.

Training Services

Want hands-on experience as you decide what career you want to pursue? Through on-the-job training and various work experiences for all ages, Central Missouri Job Center staff are ready to help set you up for success today!

Services Available

There are a lot of opportunities out there and we want to help you find the right one! The Central Workforce Development Region offers free comprehensive employment services through our Job Centers, helping you prepare for, locate, and obtain jobs and careers that suit your strengths and goals.

Job Search Assistance

Receive expert guidance and resources to help you find the right job opportunities that match your skills and career goals.

Resume Assistance

Get professional help to craft a resume that stands out to employers and showcases your strengths and experiences.

Interview Preparation

Prepare for interviews with confidence through our mock interviews and personalized feedback sessions.

Virtual Work Experiences

Participants in our virtual work experience gain job placement post-training to apply their newly acquired skills, aiding in establishing good work habits, personal management, career awareness, and financial principles, all achievable with just an internet connection and computer.

Legal Background Issue Assistance

The program offers job-seeking strategies for individuals with legal convictions, aiding in overcoming employer reluctance by demonstrating positive change, while the Federal Bonding Program provides fidelity bonding for six months, increasing opportunities for those with correctional backgrounds.

Skills Assessments

Talify Missouri and ACT WorkKeys are assessment tools that help you find suitable employment by evaluating your skills, interests, and personality and matching you with potential employers.

Education & Training

The Central Region Job Centers can help you identify necessary education and training for your career goals and determine your eligibility for financial assistance to achieve them. 

On-the-Job Training

Connect with employers offering on-the-job training programs, providing valuable experience and a paycheck while you help fulfill their workforce needs.

Work Experience

Are you between 14 and 24 years old and looking to gain valuable work experience? If so, the Work Experience Program can connect you with employers, offering critical workplace training and experience to enhance your future job prospects.

Apprenticeships

Registered Apprenticeship is a paid training program where you learn a skilled trade under the supervision of a professional and earn a nationally recognized credential upon completion.

Veterans’ Career & Employment Services

Specialized support for veterans to transition into civilian careers, including job placement and training programs.

Find a Job Center Near You!

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.

Central Region News

Missouri Jobs Report: May 2026 — Employment Grows and Unemployment Holds at 3.8%

Missouri added 3,400 jobs in May 2026 and the unemployment rate held at 3.8 percent, half a point below the national average. Here’s a breakdown of the latest labor market data and what it means for workers and employers across mid-Missouri.

From Two Part-Time Jobs to a Full-Time Nursing Career: Meghan’s Story

Meghan Zahnter was working two part-time jobs when she decided to pursue nursing. Two years later, with support from WIOA Adult, EDA, and Healthy Blue, she’s a full-time RN at Lake Regional Health Systems.

Episode 83: How to Make a Great Impression in Your First 90 Days on the Job

You got the job — now what? The first 90 days on a new job are more important than most people realize. Tune in to Episode 83 of The Workforce Link Podcast to find out how to make a great impression, build the right relationships, and set yourself up for long-term success from day one.

Missouri Leaders Gather at Mizzou to Advance Workforce Pell and AI Initiatives

State higher education and workforce leaders gathered at the University of Missouri in June to discuss Workforce Pell implementation, AI talent development, and the future of education and training in Missouri.

Built to Rebuild: How Veteran Donald Jones Welded His Past to a New Future 

Justice involved and rebuilding his life at a veterans shelter, Donald Jones connected with the Columbia Job Center. With support from Ricardo Garay and the JVSG program, he’s now working at Kraft and building toward what’s next.

From Navy Flight Officer to Lead Pilot: Chad’s Story

Retired Naval Flight Officer Chad Lukins wanted to become a commercial pilot. With support from the Columbia Job Center’s veteran services, he earned his CFI and ATP credentials and is now lead pilot at HTH Companies, Inc.

Missouri Jobs Report: April 2026 — Employment Rises and Unemployment Drops to 3.8%

Missouri added 12,000 jobs in April 2026 and the unemployment rate fell to 3.8 percent, continuing to outpace the nation. Here’s a breakdown of the latest labor market data and what it means for workers and employers across mid-Missouri.

Capital City Hiring Event Connects 94 Job Seekers with Employers in Jefferson City

The Capital City Hiring Event welcomed 94 job seekers and more than 20 employers to Jefferson City, creating valuable connections while highlighting workforce services available through the Jefferson City Job Center.

From the Front Lines of EMS to a Full-Time Nursing Career: Kalyn’s Story

Kalyn Smith was working part-time in patient care and EMS when she set her sights on nursing. With support from WIOA Adult, EDA, and Healthy Blue, she’s now a full-time RN at Boone Health.

Nearly Double the Wage, Twice the Opportunity: Colin’s Story

Meghan Zahnter was working two part-time jobs when she decided to pursue nursing. Two years later, with support from WIOA Adult, EDA, and Healthy Blue, she’s a full-time RN at Lake Regional Health Systems.

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