Governor Mike Kehoe signed a proclamation designating September as Workforce Development Month in Missouri, celebrating the impact workforce development initiatives have on the state and the collaborative efforts that create a talent pipeline and strengthen the labor force.
“Higher education institutions, Missouri Job Centers, workforce boards, employers, and organizations working together in their regions builds a stronger Missouri workforce as a whole and establishes a labor force that is armed with the education and training that businesses desire,” Governor Kehoe said in his proclamation.
The Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (MDHEWD) is commemorating the month by raising awareness of department initiatives and services that aim to increase the number of available pathways to quality careers and highlighting the free employment and training services available at Missouri Job Centers across the state.
“We encourage Missourians to visit their local Missouri Job Center and explore all of the services, education, and training available to pave the way toward success,” said Dr. Bennett Boggs, Commissioner of the Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development. “We value the partnerships we build with businesses, organizations, and higher education institutions across the state to help individuals reach their full potential and prosper in the state’s workforce.”
MDHEWD is committed to providing services and support to help Missourians get the skills and training required to find success in their career. Apprenticeship Missouri, a collaboration between the department, employers, and providers, boosts apprenticeship and work-based learning opportunities that lead to high-quality careers. Missouri currently ranks third in the nation for new and completed apprentices. Additionally, the department partners with the Missouri Department of Corrections to offer reentry services, such as employment and career goal setting, résumé building, and job interview skills, to justice-involved individuals to help them succeed in their communities after release. There are also initiatives in place to help support veterans, youth, and employers that need to connect with skilled job seekers.
“There is no singular path toward a high-quality career,” said Julie Carter, Director of the Office of Workforce Development. “Missourians of all ages and circumstances have access to services, resources, and programs to pursue their desired education and training and achieve their career goals.”
MDHEWD, with support from Local Workforce Boards, operates 21 comprehensive job centers statewide, providing vital services to both job seekers and employers, such as job matching, skill workshops and certifications, and federal bonding opportunities.
For more information about services available for job seekers and employers, visit jobs.mo.gov.