Transforming Lives in Central Missouri

Missouri added 12,000 jobs in April 2026 and the unemployment rate fell to 3.8 percent, continuing to outpace the nation. Here’s a breakdown of the latest labor market data and what it means for workers and employers across mid-Missouri.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.