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Central Region News & Updates
Discover the latest insights and developments in workforce initiatives across the Central Workforce Development Region.
Columbia Job Center Connects Battle High School Students to Career Exploration
Students at Battle High School in Columbia explored future careers through virtual reality on March 17. Columbia Job Center staff shared hands-on career tools and workforce services to help students plan their next steps after graduation.
How to Stay Focused When Work Gets Busy This Spring
As work picks up this spring, staying focused is key. Learn how to set clear priorities and keep your time centered on what matters most.
How Central Missouri Veteran Michael Turned a Career Setback Into a Fresh Start
Michael Casady served his country as a U.S. Air Force Staff Sergeant. Back home in Missouri, he faced a different kind of challenge — losing a job he’d held for 20 years. Rather than give up, he went back to school, earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, and walked into the Columbia Job Center ready to start over. This is his story.
How Missouri Veteran Thomas Kusick Turned Military Skills into a Full-Time Career
Thomas Kusick served as a Combat Engineer with the Missouri Army National Guard, deploying to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. When he came home, he faced a new battle — finding steady work after sustaining a traumatic brain injury. With the support of the Columbia Job Center and his VA case manager, Thomas discovered his passion for carpentry and landed a full-time job. This is his story.
How Missouri Veteran Nathan Frock Turned Military Skills into a Full-Time Career
After leaving military service, Nathan Frock wasn’t sure what came next. With help from the Columbia Job Center and Missouri’s veteran employment services, he found a full-time career that puts his military skills to work.
WIOA Central Workforce Development Board Local Plan Modification – Public Notice – March 2026
Consistent with the “sunshine” provisions of WIOA sec. 107(e), the Central Workforce Development Board, comprised of 19 contiguous counties of Central Missouri, will have available for public review and comment a modification to its 2024-2027 WIOA local...
Central Workforce Development Region Connects with Students at Moniteau County Career Fair
Central Workforce Development Region staff connected with students and employers at the Moniteau County Career Fair at California High School, sharing youth and veteran services and supporting career exploration in Missouri.
ABEC to Host Interviews at Lebanon Job Center on March 4
ABEC will host an appointment-only interview event March 4 at the Lebanon Job Center for experienced welders, fabricators, grinders, and electrical assemblers.
Walk-In-Wednesdays Hiring Event Returns to Columbia on March 18
Walk-In-Wednesdays returns to Columbia on March 18 at the Columbia Public Library. Meet 13 employers hiring in healthcare, public safety, local government, skilled trades, and more.
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.
Jamestown High School Students Explore Careers with Columbia Job Center
On February 20, Columbia Job Center staff visited Jamestown High School to provide virtual reality career exploration for juniors and seniors. Students used Transfr VR goggles to explore in-demand Missouri careers and learn about training pathways that support their next steps after graduation.
Boonville Correctional Center to Host Interviews on February 20 at Columbia Job Center
The Missouri Department of Corrections will host open interviews February 20, 2026 at the Missouri Job Center in Columbia, MO. Job seekers can meet directly with hiring staff and interview for Correctional Officer positions serving the Boonville facility.
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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.
Episode 71: 6 Ways Leaders Can Prevent Imposter Syndrome in the Workplace
Are you a leader who wants to combat imposter syndrome in your team? Learn 6 practical ways to create a supportive work environment and boost your team’s confidence.
Episode 70: Becoming the Change: The Power of Cultural Intelligence with Loren Rosario-Maldonado
Can embracing different cultures be the key to unlocking your full potential? Discover the transformative power of cultural intelligence with author Loren Rosario-Maldonado.