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Central Region News & Updates
Discover the latest insights and developments in workforce initiatives across the Central Workforce Development Region.
How a Wonderland Camp Partnership Is Turning Internships Into Jobs
A day of service at Wonderland Camp highlighted a partnership that keeps growing stronger, with former summer interns now hired on as camp employees
From the Marine Corps to the ICU: DeAundre’s Story
After separating from the Marine Corps, DeAundre set his sights on nursing. With support from WIOA Dislocated Worker, EDA, and Healthy Blue, he’s now an RN in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit at MU Healthcare.
Missouri Sets Bold Goal: 100,000 New Apprentices by 2027
Missouri has set an ambitious goal: 100,000 new apprentices by September 30, 2027. Here’s what that means for job seekers and employers across mid-Missouri.
Missouri Jobs Report: May 2026 — Employment Grows and Unemployment Holds at 3.8%
Missouri added 3,400 jobs in May 2026 and the unemployment rate held at 3.8 percent, half a point below the national average. Here’s a breakdown of the latest labor market data and what it means for workers and employers across mid-Missouri.
From Two Part-Time Jobs to a Full-Time Nursing Career: Meghan’s Story
Meghan Zahnter was working two part-time jobs when she decided to pursue nursing. Two years later, with support from WIOA Adult, EDA, and Healthy Blue, she’s a full-time RN at Lake Regional Health Systems.
Episode 83: How to Make a Great Impression in Your First 90 Days on the Job
You got the job — now what? The first 90 days on a new job are more important than most people realize. Tune in to Episode 83 of The Workforce Link Podcast to find out how to make a great impression, build the right relationships, and set yourself up for long-term success from day one.
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.
Missouri Jobs Report: April 2026 — Employment Rises and Unemployment Drops to 3.8%
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.
Capital City Hiring Event Connects 94 Job Seekers with Employers in Jefferson City
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.
From the Front Lines of EMS to a Full-Time Nursing Career: Kalyn’s Story
Kalyn Smith was working part-time in patient care and EMS when she set her sights on nursing. With support from WIOA Adult, EDA, and Healthy Blue, she’s now a full-time RN at Boone Health.
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Episode 80: Hiring for Attitude vs. Experience: Which Matters More?
When hiring, what matters more: attitude or experience? In this episode of the Workforce Link Podcast, we explore how employers can balance technical expertise and soft skills to build stronger teams and improve long-term retention.
Episode 79: You Don’t Have to Have It All Figured Out
You don’t have to have your career figured out to move forward. In this episode of the Workforce Link Podcast, Sundi Jo explores why clarity matters more than certainty and how slowing down can help you take the next step with confidence.
Episode 78: A Fresh Start for Your Career and Workforce Planning
The new year often brings pressure to have clear answers about work and career goals. This episode explores how to start fresh with intention, focus on clarity over urgency, and take meaningful next steps in career and workforce planning.