Central Region Rapid Response

In navigating staffing reductions and layoffs within The Central Region, having a dedicated support team is vital, helping employers meet legal obligations while aiding affected employees in finding new career paths and training opportunities.

Our Comprehensive Support Services

Rapid Response Team Offerings

Employee Assistance Meetings

We organize meetings to assist employees, providing them with the necessary resources and guidance during layoffs.

Training Program Information

Our team offers detailed information on Trade Act and other training programs to help employees enhance their skills.

Unemployment Insurance Guidance

We present essential information about Unemployment Insurance to ensure employees understand their benefits.

Job Connection Services

We connect affected employees with current job openings, facilitating a smooth transition to new employment opportunities.

Employer Layoff Obligations

Our specialists assist employers in understanding and fulfilling their legal obligations during layoffs.

No-Cost Support in Central Missouri

Our services are available at no cost to businesses and workers in the Central Region, ensuring accessible support for all.

Labor Market Information

Complete labor market information is available for employers utilizing their Employer account on jobs.mo.gov. Market trends, projections, and other information is available by completing searches on the criteria that matters to you.

Search based on Advertised Jobs, Occupational Information, Education Requirements, Employment and Unemployment, Employers by Occupation and Industries, Candidates, Profiles for Specific Local Areas, Demographic Information and much more.

Your Questions About Rapid Response Answered

Explore how our Rapid Response services can assist you during workforce transitions.

What is the Rapid Response service?

The Rapid Response service provides support to businesses and employees during layoffs, offering resources and guidance to ease the transition.

How can Rapid Response help my business?

We assist by conducting employee meetings, providing training information, and ensuring your business meets all legal obligations during layoffs.

Who can access Rapid Response services?

Our services are available to employers and affected workers in the Central Region of Missouri at no cost.

What kind of support is available for employees?

Employees can receive assistance with job placement, training opportunities, and understanding unemployment benefits.

How do I get started with Rapid Response?

Contact us to schedule a consultation with our Regional Employer Relations and Engagement Specialist to discuss your needs.

Contact Us for More Information

Central Region News

Central Workforce Development Board Welcomes Mike Howard

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 Workforce Projected to Outpace Statewide Job Growth Through 2034

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.

Central Workforce Development Board Recognizes Dedicated Service, Highlights Regional Progress at Annual Meeting

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.

Missouri Employment Drops 10,600 Jobs in September, But Annual Growth Continues

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 Drops 10,600 Jobs in September, but Annual Growth Continues

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.

MDHEWD Recognizes National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Highlighting Accessibility and Workforce Opportunities

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 Was Looking for More Than a Job. A CDL Helped Him Find a New Direction.

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.

Jefferson City Job Center Opens New Permanent Location October 5

Big news for Jefferson City. After years without a permanent home, the Jefferson City Job Center is opening its doors at 327 E. Capitol Avenue on Monday, October 5 — and it is a moment worth celebrating.

Why Workforce Development Is Never Finished

Every September, the workforce development field pauses to celebrate itself — and rightfully so. But this year, rather than looking back, we want to look forward. Because the truth is, this work is never finished.

Missouri Adds 34,100 Jobs Over the Year as Unemployment Falls to 3.5%

Missouri added 2,100 jobs in August 2026 and 34,100 jobs over the year, while the unemployment rate fell to 3.5 percent. See which industries gained jobs and what the latest data says about Missouri’s workforce.

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.

Translate »