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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 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

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.

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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

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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

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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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