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

From Program Participant to Workforce Leader: Trish Rogers Reflects on 42 Years of Service

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.

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.

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