Inspiring Success Stories
Transforming Lives in Central Missouri
Lives are being changed every day through workforce development efforts. Here are their stories.
Our Success Stories
From Army MP to Federal Detective: Taylor Cortez’s Civilian Career Takeoff
Army veteran Taylor Cortez transitions from military police to federal detective with JVSG support and a clear career goal in forensics.
Honoring Wayne Houtman for a Dedicated Career of Service in the Central Region
After 17 years of service, Wayne Houtman retires from DHEWD, leaving a lasting impact on Veterans and workforce development in Missouri.
Madison Knierim Becomes an LPN with Help from the Good Jobs Challenge Grant
Discover how Madison Knierim became an LPN with support from Missouri’s Good Jobs Challenge Grant and achieved her nursing career goals.
How the Central Workforce Development Region Helped Hermann Sand & Gravel and Missouri River Towing Improve Retention
The Lebanon Job Center helped Hermann Sand & Gravel and Missouri River Towing improve employee retention and fill job openings through hiring events.
Bridging Nature and Careers with the Central Region & Bennett Spring State Park
Discover how Bennett Spring State Park enhances operations and mentorship through a unique workforce partnership with the Central Region.
How the Lebanon Job Center Helped Hermann Sand & Gravel Achieve Full Staffing for the First Time
Hermann Sand & Gravel achieved full staffing with Lebanon Job Center’s support, boosting employee retention and solving workforce challenges.
What We Offer
Job Seeker Services
Explore numerous opportunities with the Central Workforce Development Region! Our Job Centers offer free services to help you prepare for, find, and secure jobs that match your strengths and goals.
Employer Services
Available at NO cost to you, we offer a variety of employer services, including job matching, consulting, work opportunity tax credits, on-the-job training, incumbent worker training, transition assistance, and more. See full details below.
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.

Episode 72: Find The Work You’re Wired To Do with Ken Coleman
This podcast with Ken Coleman explores his book “Find the Work You’re Wired to Do”. Learn how to assess your strengths and find a career you’ll love.
Central Region News
Madison Knierim Becomes an LPN with Help from the Good Jobs Challenge Grant
Discover how Madison Knierim became an LPN with support from Missouri’s Good Jobs Challenge Grant and achieved her nursing career goals.
MDHEWD Highlights Free Resources for Students and Job Seekers in Honor of Financial Literacy Month
Celebrate Financial Literacy Month with MDHEWD’s free tools to help Missourians budget, plan, and succeed in education and career goals.
Missouri Employment Update: February 2025 Job Growth and Trends
Discover Missouri’s robust job growth in February 2025, with a stable unemployment rate of 3.7% and sector-specific trends.
Connect with Us
1107 Kingshighway, Rolla, MO 65401
(573) 426-6030
In accordance with 29 CFR 38.9 (g)(3), Limited English Proficient (LEP) individuals will receive language assistance in all communications of vital information.
EO Officer - Korin Thurman
Click here to contact.