When Zachary first walked into the Western Missouri Job Center, he was still in high school and eager to gain work experience. With the guidance of his Career Coach, he joined the Youth Work Experience Program and earned a placement with Insite Support Service, where he was introduced to the tech field—a career path that had always interested him.
After graduation, Zachary set his sights on finding full-time employment. Through the Jobs League program, he explored his growing interest in the labor field by working with Vernon County Movers. This opportunity gave him hands-on experience and a better understanding of the kind of work he enjoyed.
Between the WIOA Youth Work Experience Program and the Jobs League program, Zachary was able to test out different industries, helping him narrow down his interests and set his sights on a long-term career. With each program, he built new skills and confidence. Eventually, he decided on a clear career pathway in welding. While continuing to work on an as-needed basis, he prepared for his next step: training.
Now, Zachary is attending the Missouri Welding Institute to earn his welding certificate. By combining the knowledge and skills he gained through each program, he’s well on his way to building a strong career in the trades. His journey highlights how career exploration, hands-on work experience, and training opportunities available through the Western Missouri Job Center can open doors for young people. Workforce programs like WIOA Youth Work Experience and Jobs League give students and recent graduates a chance to try new fields, develop workplace skills, and discover the path that’s right for them.