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Central Region News & Updates

Discover the latest insights and developments in workforce initiatives across the Central Workforce Development Region.

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.

Nearly Double the Wage, Twice the Opportunity: Colin’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 82: Why Job Descriptions Are Scaring Away Good Candidates

Is your job description driving away top talent? In Episode 82 of The Workforce Link Podcast, we break down why job descriptions are quietly scaring away good candidates and six practical things you can do right now to fix them.

Audrain County Maintains Certified Work Ready Community Status

Audrain County has once again demonstrated its commitment to workforce excellence. Western District Commissioner Tracy R. Graham recently accepted the Certified Work Ready Community award for Program Year 2025, recognizing the county’s ongoing investment in a skilled, job-ready workforce.

Osage County Maintains Certified Work Ready Community Status

Osage County has once again demonstrated its commitment to workforce excellence. County Clerk Brooke Dudenhoeffer recently accepted the Certified Work Ready Community award for Program Year 2025, recognizing the county’s ongoing investment in building a skilled, job-ready workforce.

CWDB Member Tamara Tateosian Appointed to Missouri State Workforce Development Board

Congratulations to CWDB member Tamara Tateosian, CEO of the Callaway Chamber of Commerce, on her appointment to the Missouri State Workforce Development Board — confirmed by the Missouri Senate on April 15, 2026.

When the Plan Changes: Building Adaptability Into Your Work

Change is not the exception in workforce development — it is part of the job. Here is how Central Region team members can build adaptability into their work and stay grounded in the mission when circumstances shift.

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Episode 83: How to Make a Great Impression in Your First 90 Days on the Job

by Sundi Jo Graham | June 10, 2026 | Podcast | 0 Comments

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.

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Episode 82: Why Job Descriptions Are Scaring Away Good Candidates

by Sundi Jo Graham | May 19, 2026 | Podcast | 0 Comments

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Episode 81: Why Your Emotions Are Blocking Your Job Search Success

by Sundi Jo Graham | April 22, 2026 | Podcast | 0 Comments

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.

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Episode 80: Hiring for Attitude vs. Experience: Which Matters More?

by Sundi Jo Graham | February 25, 2026 | Podcast | 0 Comments

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.

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Episode 79: You Don’t Have to Have It All Figured Out

by Sundi Jo Graham | January 28, 2026 | Podcast | 0 Comments

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.

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Episode 78: A Fresh Start for Your Career and Workforce Planning

by Sundi Jo Graham | January 5, 2026 | Podcast | 0 Comments

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.

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Episode 77: The Brain Science Behind Getting Things Done at Work

by Sundi Jo Graham | November 20, 2025 | Podcast | 0 Comments

Learn the brain science behind accountability at work. This Workforce Link Podcast episode explains why some employees excel and how all Missouri job seekers and employers can build stronger habits.

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Episode 76:Career Shifts: When to Move On and How to Do It Well

by Sundi Jo Graham | October 29, 2025 | Podcast | 0 Comments

Discover the three cognitive habits that make people more accountable and productive at work. Learn how neuroscience supports better team performance.

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