careers that suit your strengths and goals
Get Hired Today
Want hands-on experience as you decide what career you want to pursue? Through on-the-job training, work experiences, and apprenticeships, Central Missouri Job Center staff are ready to help set you up for success today!
Job Search Assistance
Because Job Center staff are constantly thinking about jobs, they are uniquely qualified to assist you with your job search. Staff know the employers in the areas they serve. They care about successfully matching workers and employers because they live there. They are also connected to state-wide employment opportunities. Take advantage of all of the job search resources available to you in a Missouri Job Center.
ON-THE-JOB TRAINING
This is an excellent opportunity for eligible job seekers to get hands-on experience from an employer while earning a paycheck. It’s a win-win for everyone. Employers get the workforce they need and you get the experience you need.
Job Center staff will connect you with the right employer, take care of the required paperwork, and put together the perfect training plan that gives you the skills you need.
WORK EXPERIENCE
The Work Experience Program is available to youth (ages 14-24) who have little or no past work experience. It provides an opportunity to meet with prospective employees while also taking advantage of critical workplace training. Gaining work experience gives youth the needed work background to secure jobs future jobs. Much like On-the-Job training, Job Center staff facilitate the connection between youth, schools, partner programs, and employers.
REGISTERED APPRENTICESHIP
Registered Apprenticeship is an alternative “earn while you learn” combination of training and employment. Apprentice workers gradually earn more as they reach higher levels of productivity. In addition to rewarding performance, a Registered Apprenticeship combines employer-driven, job-related instruction with extensive on-the-job learning under the supervision of a trade professional.
After completing a Registered Apprenticeship, the apprentice receives a nationally-recognized occupational credential that communicates the standards and high level of training that their employer provides.
Youth Programs
A good resume can persuade an employer to invite you to come in for a job interview. In fact, that’s the main reason for a resume.
CAREER CLUB
A virtual work experience with job placement after training, allowing participants to implement their newly developed skills.
The virtual work experience exists to help job seekers establish good work habits, personal management skills, increase career awareness, learn money management principles, and more, helping them be successful in both the workforce and life.
All you need is an internet connection and a computer.
Participants receive placement in a work experience at the end of the virtual training in a job that allows them to put their newly developed skills to use.
CDL Training
Central Missouri Job Centers offer CDL training that connects aspiring drivers with employers and emphasizes practical, real-world skills for a successful trucking career.
CLEMENT TRUCKING
Clement CDL Training, in partnership with Central Region Missouri Job Centers, offers a four-week, 160-hour program in Lebanon, MO. The training includes classroom instruction, hands-on driving experience, and job placement assistance with over 70 partnered employers, focusing on safety, professionalism, and real-world trucking skills.
STATE FAIR COMMUNITY COLLEGE
State Fair Community College offers a comprehensive Commercial Driving Academy at multiple campuses, providing 160 hours of online and behind-the-wheel training designed to meet Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations. This program aims to produce qualified Class A and B CDL drivers, with additional endorsements available, and offers tuition assistance for eligible student
MOBERLY AREA COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Offering a 200-hour CDL training program in Columbia, MO. The five-week program includes 40 hours of classroom instruction and 160 hours of hands-on driving experience, featuring a high-tech simulator and a 3:1 student-teacher ratio. Tuition assistance and discounted tuition are available for eligible participants.
MOCK INTERVIEWS
Practice your interviewing skills in an environment similar to an actual interview. Mock interviews are available at a local Job Center, by phone, and also using video conferencing. During the mock interview, staff will ask interview questions that are appropriate for the kind of work you are looking for, and then give you feedback and advice on how you can improve. Schedule a mock interview by calling a Job Center today.
Other Training
The Central Workforce Development Region is working with Boone Health to provide scholarships to individuals looking to begin or grow their career in health care, as well as a Warehouse training program through JobPoint.
BOONE BELIEVES IN ME
The Boone Believes in Me grant offers scholarships covering tuition, books, and stipends for individuals pursuing healthcare careers at Boone Health. Participants must reside in designated counties, be at least 18, complete certification programs by September 30, 2025, and commit to working at Boone Health for two years post-certification. Programs include Paramedic, Nursing, Medical Assistant, Nurse Assistant, Surgical Technician, and Medical Laboratory Technician.
WAREHOUSE TRAINING
The Warehousing Training program offers a mix of classroom study and hands-on experience, covering certifications like Prologis Supply Chain Warehousing, OSHA-30, CPR/First Aid, and OSHA Forklift. The 12-16 week course includes topics such as inventory management, order fulfillment, and safety practices. Eligibility requires basic education levels, medical clearance, and a background check. The warehousing industry is expected to grow significantly, offering various job opportunities with benefits.
MOCK INTERVIEWS
Practice your interviewing skills in an environment similar to an actual interview. Mock interviews are available at a local Job Center, by phone, and also using video conferencing. During the mock interview, staff will ask interview questions that are appropriate for the kind of work you are looking for, and then give you feedback and advice on how you can improve. Schedule a mock interview by calling a Job Center today.
Other Youth/Young Adult Resources
Academic Support
Activities that lead to completion of a high school diploma or recognized equivalent
Dropout Recovery
Assist youth who have struggled in traditional secondary education or who have dropped out of school.
Concurrent Education
Search and apply for jobs, read and leave reviews about employers, and anonymously submit and view salaries to help with pay discussions.
Leadership Development
Explore careers, find training, search for jobs, and access various job-related resources in your local area through this U.S. Department of Labor site.
Supportive Services
Optimize your resume for online applications by analyzing how well it is tailored for a particular job. Upload your resume and job posting to get feedback.
Mentoring
ZipRecruiter uses smart matching technology to connect you with employers looking for your skills. Apply to jobs and get noticed by employers.
Follow-up Services
Search for jobs, post your resume, and find career advice on SimplyHired. Discover the right job for you from thousands of listings.
Guidance Counseling
Find hourly jobs and apply online. Snagajob offers job listings, career advice, and resources to help you find the perfect hourly job.
Financial Literacy
Find remote, part-time, freelance, and flexible jobs. FlexJobs offers a curated list of legitimate job opportunities and career resources.
Entrepreneurial Skills Training
Find remote, part-time, freelance, and flexible jobs. FlexJobs offers a curated list of legitimate job opportunities and career resources.
Labor Market Information
Find remote, part-time, freelance, and flexible jobs. FlexJobs offers a curated list of legitimate job opportunities and career resources.
College Readiness
Find remote, part-time, freelance, and flexible jobs. FlexJobs offers a curated list of legitimate job opportunities and career resources.
Get Involved with Workforce Development
Discover how the Central Workforce Development Region can assist you in achieving your career goals. Our services span 19 counties in mid-Missouri, offering support for job seekers and employers. Connect with us today to explore the opportunities available to 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.
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
It’s Not Too Late: Why September is the Perfect Time to Start Achieving Your Goals
It’s never too late to start achieving your goals. September offers a fresh start to refocus, set new intentions, and make progress before the year ends.
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.
Contact Us
1107 Kingshighway, Rolla, MO 65401
(573) 426-6030
sundijo@cwdregion.com
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 Ell
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Central Workforce Development Board, Inc. and COPIC are equal-opportunity employers/programs. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Missouri Relay Services at 711. If needed, call M. Korin Ell at 573-426-6030 ext. 2 for assistance in the translation and understanding of the information in the document(s) you have received. Si necesita asistencia para traducir y entender la información contenida en el documento(s) que recibió, llame al M. Korin Ell 573-426-6030 ext 2.