By Janice Phelan,
March 18, 2024
Area adults interested in a new career or job advancement now have the opportunity
to obtain a variety of services related to workforce development and training at a
recently opened satellite office at the University of Central Missouri’s Lee’s Summit
campus.
Representatives from the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development
(MDHEWD) as well as the Full Employment Council (FEC) will operate out of UCM’s Missouri
Innovation Campus from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
Services available to both adults and students through these organizations include
daily workshops on how to successfully create a resume, job interviewing skill sessions
and quarterly hiring fairs, all at the Lee’s Summit location. In addition, the satellite
office offers monthly testing through WorkKeys, an assessment designed to help people
determine their best choices for career success.
“MDHEWD is very excited about the opportunity to be part of the Missouri Innovation
Campus,” said Julie Carter, director of the Office of Workforce Development. “This
satellite office provides an opportunity to serve all students on campus and offer
the community access to invaluable free job center services.”
FEC representatives will also work with individuals to help them learn if they are
eligible for scholarship funding for the University of Central Missouri’s industry-recognized
certificate programs. Previously, those interested in scholarships had to travel to
the organization’s Kansas City location for assistance.
The new satellite office is designed to provide a one-stop, more convenient location
for residents of Eastern Jackson County, Cass County and other areas outside the metropolitan
area. All services are offered free of charge.
“Having a one-stop shop for free resume and interviewing workshops as well as targeted
job fairs is yet another way UCM serves our local community,” said Clarinda Dir, UCM
workforce and professional education manager. “Prospective students will also be able
to apply for scholarships and learn if they qualify for grants to pay for their certificate
training. By welcoming MDHEWD to the Lee’s Summit campus, we are continuing to support
our values of community, diversity, learning and opportunity.”
For more information about the new satellite office, please email workforce@ucmo.edu. Additional information about the services are also available at jobs.mo.gov. To learn the latest news about workforce events planned at this Lee’s Summit location,
sign up for UCM Lee’s Summit’s newsletter.
The collaboration is especially advantageous to Lee’s Summit area residents since
the Missouri Innovation Campus is also home to the university’s Center for Workforce and Professional Education. From this location, UCM offers both professional education and career certificate
programs in high-demand areas such as healthcare, information technology, business
and advanced manufacturing. Courses are offered in-person, online and hybrid to fit
the needs of busy adult learners. A number of courses can be completed in as little
as six weeks. Qualifying students have the opportunity to obtain debt-free scholarships
covering their program’s cost.