Central Workforce Development Region

10/23/2026

Got plans Monday? We've got something worth adding to your calendar!

Hartmann Packaging is returning to the Rolla Job Center for another Hiring Event, and they're looking to connect with job seekers interested in manufacturing opportunities.

With starting production pay of $18.55+ per hour, this could be a great time to explore your next career move.

Monday, October 26
1–4 p.m.
Rolla Job Center
1117 Kingshighway, Rolla, MO

Whether you missed the first event or are just hearing about it, there's still time to connect with Hartmann, ask questions, and learn about opportunities at their Rolla facility.

Make Monday count. We hope to see you there!

10/22/2026

Think On-the-Job Training is only for people just starting out? Think again.

OJT is for career changers, recent graduates, and anyone ready to build new skills in a real workplace — while getting paid to do it. No matter where you are in your career journey, it may be an option worth exploring.

Learn more at cwdregion.com/trainingservices

10/22/2026

On Wednesday, October 21, the Central Workforce Development Board and Chief Local Elected Officials gathered at Old Kinderhook Resort in Camdenton for their Annual Joint Meeting.

The meeting provided an opportunity to reflect on the past year's accomplishments, review our 2026 Annual Report, and hear from Veronica Gielazauskas with the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC) about labor market trends and the future of Central Missouri's workforce.

One of the most meaningful moments of the day was recognizing three individuals for their dedicated service to our region.

🏆 Trish Rogers was honored for 40 years of service to the Central Region following her recent retirement.

"I have worked with so many wonderful people. I think my greatest joy has been watching and observing our clients and we truly changed lives." — Trish Rogers

🏆 Gary Jungermann was recognized for his leadership as CLEO Caucus Chair, helping guide the Central Region through challenging times alongside former Board Chair and current Vice Chair T.R. Dudley. Gary has also served as Callaway County Presiding Commissioner for 16 years.

🏆 Kathy Groves was recognized for her dedicated service on the Central Workforce Development Board.

We are grateful for the leadership, commitment, and years of service these individuals have given to workforce development in Central Missouri.

Thank you to our Board members, county commissioners, partners, and guests who joined us. Together, we're continuing the work of strengthening communities through workforce development efforts.

10/22/2026

Missouri has a new roadmap for growing its workforce.

The Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development has released Strategic Plan 2027: Building Missouri’s Future. By 2034, 71 percent of Missouri jobs will require education or training beyond high school, and this plan lays out how the state will get there.

Key goals include:

60 percent postsecondary educational attainment
70 percent labor force participation
Expanding registered apprenticeships and the College Reconnect campaign
Launching the Workforce Pell Grant
Extending Reentry Job Center services to all 19 state correctional facilities

The results already speak for themselves. In 2025, Missouri Job Centers helped nearly 28,000 job seekers find employment, with workers earning $32 in wages for every federal dollar invested.

Read the full story: https://cwdregion.com/mdhewd-strategic-plan-2027-building-missouris-future/

MDHEWD released Strategic Plan 2027, a roadmap to expand educational opportunity, close talent gaps, and grow Missouri’s workforce.

10/21/2026

Missed the first Hartmann Hiring Event? You've got another chance!

Hartmann Packaging is returning to the Rolla Job Center on Monday, October 26, and they're looking to connect with job seekers interested in manufacturing careers.

Starting production pay is $18.55+ per hour, with opportunities for growth and development in a supportive team environment.

Monday, October 26
1–4 p.m.
Rolla Job Center
1117 Kingshighway, Rolla, MO

Whether you're actively looking for work or considering a career change, this is your chance to meet with Hartmann, ask questions, and explore what's available.

Make plans to stop by. We'd love to see you there!

10/21/2026

TODAY IS THE DAY!

Looking for a new job? Thinking about a career change? Or just curious about what opportunities are out there?

We've got 10 employers scheduled to be at the Daniel Boone Regional Library TODAY for our Walk-In-Wednesdays Manufacturing Hiring Event!

This is your chance to meet employers face-to-face, ask about current openings, and make connections that could lead to your next opportunity.

And yes, on-the-spot interviews will be available!

TODAY, Wednesday, October 21
1:00–3:00 p.m.
Daniel Boone Regional Library
100 W. Broadway, Columbia

Bring your résumé, come ready to talk, and see where the afternoon takes you.

There's still time to pre-register at cwdregion.com/wiw.

We'll see you this afternoon!

10/21/2026

Failure is not proof you are not capable. It is feedback.

A fixed mindset avoids mistakes.
A growth mindset learns and keeps going.

That shift matters for job seekers, workers, and employers alike.

10/20/2026

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month!

This year's theme, “Celebrating Value and Talent,” recognizes the skills, contributions, and perspectives individuals with disabilities bring to our workplaces and communities.

Across Missouri, partnerships are helping expand access to apprenticeships, workforce training, and career opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

At your Central Region Job Centers, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to build a meaningful career.

Learn more about how Missouri is recognizing National Disability Employment Awareness Month and creating pathways to employment.

https://cwdregion.com/national-disability-employment-awareness-month-2026/

Missouri celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month 2026, recognizing talent and expanding career opportunities for all.

10/20/2026

When Keeoctea Hightower came to the Columbia Job Center, she needed a fresh start. As a veteran, she had the skills — she just needed a path. Even a mid-course change of direction didn't slow her down. See where she landed: cwdregion.com/successstories

10/20/2026

Tomorrow could be the day you make your next career connection.

The Manufacturing Hiring Event is happening TOMORROW, and we're bringing 10 employers together in one place, ready to meet job seekers like you!

Forget waiting around for an email response. Come have a real conversation, ask about current openings, learn what employers are looking for, and take advantage of on-the-spot interviews.

Wednesday, October 21
1:00–3:00 p.m.
Daniel Boone Regional Library
100 W. Broadway, Columbia

Bring your résumé, bring your questions, and come ready to explore what's next.

Pre-register at cwdregion.com/wiw.

One afternoon. Ten employers. Plenty of opportunities to make a connection.

We'll see you tomorrow!