Discover Our Strategic Vision

PY24-PY27 Strategic Plan

Explore our comprehensive strategy to drive workforce development and economic growth in the Central Workforce Development Region.

About Us

The Central Workforce Development Region is dedicated to strengthening communities through workforce development efforts. Covering 19 counties in mid-Missouri, we provide essential services and activities to businesses and citizens. Our mission is to enhance the regional economy by offering comprehensive job centers, satellite locations, and a volunteer board committed to workforce excellence.

Central Region News

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.

Episode 82: Why Job Descriptions Are Scaring Away Good Candidates

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.

Audrain County Maintains Certified Work Ready Community Status

Audrain County has once again demonstrated its commitment to workforce excellence. Western District Commissioner Tracy R. Graham recently accepted the Certified Work Ready Community award for Program Year 2025, recognizing the county’s ongoing investment in a skilled, job-ready workforce.

Osage County Maintains Certified Work Ready Community Status

Osage County has once again demonstrated its commitment to workforce excellence. County Clerk Brooke Dudenhoeffer recently accepted the Certified Work Ready Community award for Program Year 2025, recognizing the county’s ongoing investment in building a skilled, job-ready workforce.

CWDB Member Tamara Tateosian Appointed to Missouri State Workforce Development Board

Congratulations to CWDB member Tamara Tateosian, CEO of the Callaway Chamber of Commerce, on her appointment to the Missouri State Workforce Development Board — confirmed by the Missouri Senate on April 15, 2026.

When the Plan Changes: Building Adaptability Into Your Work

Change is not the exception in workforce development — it is part of the job. Here is how Central Region team members can build adaptability into their work and stay grounded in the mission when circumstances shift.

From CNA to RN: How Natalie Plemmons Turned Her Dream Into a Career

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.

From Part-Time Retail to Registered Nurse: Maria Wolfrum’s Story

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.

How the Central Region Is Closing the Gap Between Employers and Job Seekers with Disabilities

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.

Rolla Regional Spring Hiring Event Connects Job Seekers and Employers Across the Central Region

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.

Osage County Maintains Certified Work Ready Community Status

Osage County has once again demonstrated its commitment to workforce excellence. County Clerk Brooke Dudenhoeffer recently accepted the Certified Work Ready Community award for Program Year 2025, recognizing the county’s ongoing investment in building a skilled, job-ready workforce.

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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.

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