Central Region Labor Market Information

When Natalie Plemmons came to the Job Center in 2024, she had a goal and a job — but needed support to get through nursing school. With help from three workforce programs, she graduated from State Fair Community College and started her RN career three days later.

With support from WIOA Adult, EDA, and Healthy Blue, Maria Wolfrum went from part-time retail work to a full-time career as a Registered Nurse — graduating from State Fair Community College and landing a position at Capital Region Medical Center.

The 4th annual AccessAbility Business Summit brought mid-Missouri employers, advocates, and job seekers together for a full day of education, connection, and inclusive hiring solutions. Here’s a look at what made May 7 a day worth celebrating.

Around 80 job seekers and more than 40 employers gathered at the National Guard Armory in Rolla for the Rolla Regional Spring Hiring Event. The event created opportunities for networking, on-site interviews, and career exploration across multiple industries throughout the Central Region.

After 25+ years of military service, Rodney Richardson came home to Missouri ready to work — but unsure where to start. Through JVSG, Wagner-Peyser, and the Columbia Job Center team, he turned decades of leadership experience into a full-time management career.

CWDB is requesting proposals for a provider of WIOA programs and services and One-Operation in nineteen counties of Central Missouri.

Missouri Decision Day recognizes high school seniors as they choose their next step, from college and training to careers and military service, while encouraging all Missourians to plan for their future.

Reagan Blain was working as a CNA and waitress when she walked into the Job Center ready for a change. With support from WIOA Adult, Healthy Blue, and EDA, she graduated with her ADN and is now a licensed Registered Nurse at SSM Health St. Mary’s — earning double her previous wage.

Missouri’s March 2026 jobs report shows a slight dip in monthly payroll employment, but the state’s unemployment rate holds steady at 3.9 percent — well below the national average. Here’s what the latest labor market data means for workers and employers across mid-Missouri.

The best conversations in workforce development do not start with answers. They start with better questions. Here is how this simple but powerful skill can strengthen every interaction across the Central Region.