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Central Region News & Updates
Discover the latest insights and developments in workforce initiatives across the Central Workforce Development Region.
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.
Youth Hiring Event Connects Dozens of Young Job Seekers with Local Employers in Columbia
The June 25 youth hiring event in Columbia, MO connected 70 job seekers with 14 employers at the Columbia Public Library.
May 2025 Missouri Jobs Report: Employment Grows by 3,700 Jobs
Missouri added 3,700 jobs in May 2025, with year-over-year growth of 10,900 jobs. Get the latest employment and unemployment trends here.
Central Region Hosts Rapid Response Event at the Secretary of State Office
Central Region hosted a Rapid Response event to assist laid-off employees at the Secretary of State Office.
First Class Graduates from MOSOC Physical Security Training Program
Ten students graduated from the MOSOC Training Program, gaining skills in physical security and beginning paid on-the-job training.
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Tune into The Podcast
Episode 56: Job Search Tips for the Over 40 Crowd
If you’re an employer who desires to lead your team better or an employee who dreads your boss, this episode is for you!
Episode 55: How To Bring Out the Best in You with Dr. Julwel Kenney
If you’re an employer who desires to lead your team better or an employee who dreads your boss, this episode is for you!
Episode 54: How to Introduce Yourself in an Email
Is there a right or wrong way to send an email to a potential employer? Yes and yes, and we’re talking about it in this episode of The Workforce Link Podcast.