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
Daryon Efaw: A WIOA & SkillUp Journey from CNA to RN
Meet Daryon Efaw, a Southwest Baptist University graduate. From CNA to RN, her journey showcases the transformative power of education and determination.
From Challenges to Triumph: Makinzie Dinwiddie’s Inspiring Path with WIOA Support
From unemployed high school dropout to HISET recipient, Makinzie is now making $20/hr. and supporting her new baby.
Overcoming Adversity to Achieve Her Dreams: A Success Story
Ms. Dawson went from unemployed to earning over $26/hr as an RN, thanks to the WIOA Dislocated Worker program.
The Power of Perseverance: Rebekah’s Success Story
Discover how Rebekah landed her dream job as a Community Connections Specialist with the help of the Rolla Job Center and perseverance.
From Standstill to Success: Jessica’s Journey to LPN Certification
Thanks to WIOA funding, Jessica completed the nursing program and more than doubled her previous wage!
From LPN to RN: How Jennifer Kauffman’s Hard Work and WIOA Funding Led to Career Advancement and Financial Stability (Success Story)
Thanks to WIOA funding, Ashley completed the nursing program and more than doubled her previous wage!
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 67: Four Strategies to Deal With the Emotions of Job Loss
Feeling lost after a layoff? Learn how to navigate anger, sadness, and fear while actively pursuing a new job. Get practical tips for healthy emotional processing.
Central Region News
August 2024 Missouri Jobs Report
Missouri added 7,900 jobs in August 2024, raising the unemployment rate to 3.9%, with 5,800 private sector and 2,100 government jobs.
Central Workforce Development Region Partners with DHEWD for Career Opportunity Training for Youth (COTY)
Discover CWDR’s partnership with DHEWD to launch the COTY program, equipping Columbia Public School students with essential workforce skills.
The Central Region and Flourish Partnership Provides Life-Changing Work Experience Opportunities
CWDR & Flourish offer life-changing work experiences for youth, breaking barriers to economic and educational success.
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.