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Central Region News & Updates
Discover the latest insights and developments in workforce initiatives across the Central Workforce Development Region.
MDHEWD celebrates Decision Day and encourages Missourians to pursue the path that fits their goals
Missouri Decision Day recognizes high school seniors as they choose their next step, from college and training to careers and military service, while encouraging all Missourians to plan for their future.
Reagan Blain: From Two Part-Time Jobs to Registered Nurse
Reagan Blain was working as a CNA and waitress when she walked into the Job Center ready for a change. With support from WIOA Adult, Healthy Blue, and EDA, she graduated with her ADN and is now a licensed Registered Nurse at SSM Health St. Mary’s — earning double her previous wage.
Missouri Jobs Report: March 2026 — What the Numbers Mean for Mid-Missouri Workers and Employers
Missouri’s March 2026 jobs report shows a slight dip in monthly payroll employment, but the state’s unemployment rate holds steady at 3.9 percent — well below the national average. Here’s what the latest labor market data means for workers and employers across mid-Missouri.
The Questions That Move People Forward
The best conversations in workforce development do not start with answers. They start with better questions. Here is how this simple but powerful skill can strengthen every interaction across the Central Region.
Central Region Teams Up with Columbia Chamber at Business in Motion Expo 2026
The Columbia Job Center hosted its April Walk-In-Wednesdays hiring event, connecting 57 job seekers with 9 local employers for on-the-spot interviews and real hiring conversations in Columbia, Missouri.
Walk-In-Wednesdays Brings 57 Job Seekers and 9 Employers Together in Columbia for April Hiring Event
The Columbia Job Center hosted its April Walk-In-Wednesdays hiring event, connecting 57 job seekers with 9 local employers for on-the-spot interviews and real hiring conversations in Columbia, Missouri.
Veteran and Spouse Hiring Fair Connects 42 Job Seekers with Missouri Employers
The Columbia Job Center and Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital hosted a Veteran and Spouse Hiring Fair on April 21, 2026, connecting 42 job seekers — including 32 veterans — with regional employers in Columbia, Missouri.
Pulaski County Maintains Work Ready Community Status
Pulaski County Clerk Dave Ernst accepted the award on behalf of the county, presented by COPIC Executive Director Trish Rogers, recognizing maintained Certified Work Ready Community status for Program Year 2025.
Episode 81: Why Your Emotions Are Blocking Your Job Search Success
Your resume might not be the problem. In Episode 81 of The Workforce Link Podcast, we break down how anxiety and self-doubt quietly sabotage your job search and what you can do about it.
From Checkout Lane to Law Enforcement: Austin’s Success Story
Austin Harris was working at Walmart when he decided he wanted more. Through the WIOA Out-of-School Youth program and training at the Missouri Sheriffs’ Association Academy, he earned his Police Officer License and launched a law enforcement career with benefits, stability, and a future he’s proud of.
Missouri Workforce Update: February 2026 Jobs Data Shows Shifts Across Industries
Missouri lost 8,600 jobs in February 2026, while the unemployment rate remained steady at 3.9 percent, reflecting shifts across key industries.
Lebanon Job Center Supports Student Interviews at Lebanon High School
Lebanon Job Center staff worked with 45 Lebanon High School seniors on April 9 and 10, providing mock interviews and real-world guidance to help students prepare for employment and future career opportunities.
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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.
Episode 75: AI, Automation, and the Future of Work: How Technology Is Changing Jobs
Explore how AI and automation are transforming jobs—and how job seekers and employers can adapt.
Episode 74: How Stacy Learned to Break the Cycle
Stacy Dismang Wright spent 21 years in prison. Now she’s helping others recover. Hear her powerful story of redemption, purpose, and second chances.