The Workforce Link Podcast

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.

Is your job description driving away top talent? In Episode 82 of The Workforce Link Podcast, we break down why job descriptions are quietly scaring away good candidates and six practical things you can do right now to fix them.

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.

When hiring, what matters more: attitude or experience? In this episode of the Workforce Link Podcast, we explore how employers can balance technical expertise and soft skills to build stronger teams and improve long-term retention.

You don’t have to have your career figured out to move forward. In this episode of the Workforce Link Podcast, Sundi Jo explores why clarity matters more than certainty and how slowing down can help you take the next step with confidence.

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.

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.

Discover the three cognitive habits that make people more accountable and productive at work. Learn how neuroscience supports better team performance.

Explore how AI and automation are transforming jobs—and how job seekers and employers can adapt.

Stacy Dismang Wright spent 21 years in prison. Now she’s helping others recover. Hear her powerful story of redemption, purpose, and second chances.

With help from the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), Charles Sederburg overcame the financial barrier to CDL training and earned his commercial driver’s license. His determination and hard work are helping him build a path toward a more stable future.

Nine students from Extended Hair Academy in Columbia, Missouri, earned professional certificates through the Career Opportunity Training for Youth (COTY) program. Graduates will now complete 120 hours of paid work experience as they prepare for careers in the beauty industry.

From workforce program participant to longtime COPIC Executive Director, Trish Rogers spent 42 years helping others overcome barriers and build brighter futures. As she retires, she reflects on her career, the people who inspired her, and the impact of workforce development in Central Missouri.

The Central Workforce Development Board welcomes Mike Howard of Missouri LECET. His experience in skilled trades recruitment, apprenticeships, and business leadership will support workforce development efforts across Central Missouri.

Central Missouri employment is projected to grow 4.85% through 2034, exceeding the statewide average. New MERIC data highlights expanding career opportunities, health care demand, and workforce trends across the 19-county Central Region.

The Central Workforce Development Board and local elected officials gathered October 21 in Camdenton to recognize dedicated service, review regional accomplishments, and discuss Central Missouri’s workforce outlook.

The Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development has released Strategic Plan 2027: Building Missouri’s Future, a roadmap to prepare Missourians for high demand careers and help employers facing talent shortages. The plan sets statewide goals of 60 percent postsecondary attainment and 70 percent labor force participation.

Missouri employment declined by 10,600 jobs in September 2026, while the unemployment rate rose slightly to 3.6%. Despite the monthly decrease, the state added 28,400 jobs over the past year, with leisure and hospitality leading annual growth.

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Learn how Missouri is recognizing the contributions of individuals with disabilities and expanding access to apprenticeships, STEM careers, and workforce training opportunities.

Jeffrey Tubbs wanted more than another job. Through WIOA Adult and EDA assistance, he completed CDL training, earned his Class A license, and opened doors to new career opportunities.