Stay Informed with the Latest Updates
Central Region News & Updates
Discover the latest insights and developments in workforce initiatives across the Central Workforce Development Region.
Missouri Jobs Gain 17,100 in July 2025
Missouri added 17,100 jobs in July 2025, while unemployment rose to 4.1%. See key industry gains, losses, and how Missouri compares nationally.
MDHEWD Honored as Top State in National Workforce Initiative
Missouri’s MDHEWD was honored as the top state in a national workforce initiative, showcasing leadership and innovation in workforce development.
Flourish Program Helps Boone County Youth Thrive Through Paid Summer Work Experiences
Columbia Job Center partners with Flourish to support Boone County youth through paid summer work experience opportunities.
How the COTY Program Helped Justine Go from Homeless to Hired
Justine, a high school senior in Lebanon, Missouri, overcame housing instability and found a job through the COTY program. Read her inspiring story.
Central Workforce Development Board Member Mark Maasen Named New President of Lake of the Ozarks Shootout
Mark Maasen named president of Lake of the Ozarks Shootout as the event heads into its 36th year, continuing its legacy of community impact.
Fast Track Incentive Grant Application Now Open for the 2025-2026 academic year
Apply now for Missouri’s Fast Track Grant—financial aid for adults pursuing education in high-demand careers. Deadline: May 15, 2026.
Central Region Promotes STEM Careers at MO Youth Leadership Forum
MO Youth Leadership Forum, Central Workforce Development, WIOA youth services, STEM careers, Roger Brisley, VR goggles, youth engagement, disability inclusion, Jefferson City events, Missouri workforce outreach.
Central Workforce Development Region Welcomes Lisa Buchanan to the Board
We’re excited to welcome Lisa Buchanan, Columbia Chamber VP of Workforce Development, to the Central Workforce Development Board.
Missouri Employment Report – June 2025: Job Growth Continues, Unemployment Rate Steady at 4%
Missouri added 7,900 jobs in June 2025 while the unemployment rate held steady at 4%. See job gains, losses, and year-over-year trends.
Austin and Drew Rogers Found New Roads Through CDL Training in Missouri
Austin and Drew Rogers boosted their income with CDL training in Missouri. Their story shows the power of workforce development and community impact.
Drew Rogers Shifts Gears and Finds Career Success with CDL Training in Missouri
Drew Rogers increased his income with CDL training in Missouri through the EDA Good Jobs Challenge. Read how he found a stable, higher-paying career.
Austin Rogers Found a New Road After High School Graduation (Success Story)
Austin Rogers boosted his income after CDL training in Missouri, thanks to the EDA Good Jobs Challenge. Here’s how he found career success.
Follow The Central Region on Social Media
Tune into The Podcast
Episode 62: How The Power of Play Can Boost Your Productivity with Mike Montague
In this episode of The Workforce Link Podcast, we will learn from Mike how to be more creative, why play is important in productivity, why grinding doesn’t work, and how we can be more playful.
Episode 61: How to Unlock Your Potential and Embrace Change
Rediscover your past, embrace change, and shape your future with practical insights. Join us in exploring personal transformation in this episode.
The Workforce Link Podcast Season Six Coming Soon
Here’s a glimpse of what’s coming in Season Six of the Workforce Link Podcast.











