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
High School Student Balances Leadership, Learning, and Work (Katie’s Success Story)
High school student Katie Carpenter builds confidence and career skills through a youth work experience program in St. James, Missouri.
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.
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 76:Career Shifts: When to Move On and How to Do It Well
Discover the three cognitive habits that make people more accountable and productive at work. Learn how neuroscience supports better team performance.
Central Region News
Missouri Leaders Gather at Mizzou to Advance Workforce Pell and AI Initiatives
State higher education and workforce leaders gathered at the University of Missouri in June to discuss Workforce Pell implementation, AI talent development, and the future of education and training in Missouri.
Built to Rebuild: How Veteran Donald Jones Welded His Past to a New Future
Justice involved and rebuilding his life at a veterans shelter, Donald Jones connected with the Columbia Job Center. With support from Ricardo Garay and the JVSG program, he’s now working at Kraft and building toward what’s next.
From Navy Flight Officer to Lead Pilot: Chad’s Story
Retired Naval Flight Officer Chad Lukins wanted to become a commercial pilot. With support from the Columbia Job Center’s veteran services, he earned his CFI and ATP credentials and is now lead pilot at HTH Companies, Inc.