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Central Region News & Updates
Discover the latest insights and developments in workforce initiatives across the Central Workforce Development Region.
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.
Missouri River Towing Hiring Deck Hands at Lebanon Job Center on February 24
Missouri River Towing will host a hiring event on February 24 at the Lebanon Job Center, interviewing for Deck Hand positions with full-time schedules, daily pay, and advancement opportunities.
Columbia Job Center Connects Veterans to Employment Resources at Monthly Resource Fair
Columbia Job Center staff connected with veterans at the February 10 Veteran Resource Fair at The Food Bank, sharing employment and training resources.
How Mary Found Her Next Career After Military Service
After military service, Mary partnered with the Columbia Job Center to explore career options, strengthen her job search, and secure full time employment in public safety. Her story shows how Veteran employment services can support a successful transition to civilian work.
Missouri Ends 2025 with Steady Job Growth
Missouri added 800 jobs in December 2025, ending the year with continued employment growth and an unemployment rate below the national average.
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.
Reagan Trades an Apron for a Career in Nursing
Reagan Blain came to the Job Center looking for stability and a future in healthcare. With the right support, she turned part-time work into a career as a Registered Nurse and is now building a more secure future for herself.
Lebanon Job Center Supports Regional Consistency Through Staff Training
Lebanon Job Center staff led a regional training to support consistent job order and employer account practices, strengthening workforce services across the Central Region.
Central Workforce Development Region Welcomes Tyler Reyes to the Board
Tyler Reyes of EquipmentShare has joined the Central Workforce Development Board, bringing experience in apprenticeships, employer-led training, and workforce leadership.
Namisha White Finds Her Path in Healthcare (Success Story)
Namisha White is building a career in nursing with training from the Waynesville Career Center and support from the Central Workforce Development Region. Her story shows how opportunity and workforce partnerships open doors to in-demand healthcare careers.
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Episode 68: How to Lead Well and Why Our Words Matter with Becki Duncan
Discover the difference between leading and managing. Becki Duncan, a restaurant industry veteran, shares her insights on compassionate leadership and the power of words.
Episode 67: Four Strategies to Deal With the Emotions of Job Loss
Feeling lost after a layoff? Learn how to navigate anger, sadness, and fear while actively pursuing a new job. Get practical tips for healthy emotional processing.
Episode 66: Single Mom Life and Finding Your Seat at the Table with Eugina Jordan
Female leadership, immigration, single mom to CMO. Eugina Jordan shares her journey and how to overcome challenges.