Cole County Group Targets 66% Hiring Gap With Shuttle Plans and Resource Push

2 articles · Updated · Jefferson City News Tribune · May 27

About a dozen Cole County residents met Tuesday to turn workforce-readiness data into action steps, centering on employer-backed transportation and easier access to job, skills and child-care resources.
Missouri survey data drove the focus: 66% of employers cited a lack of applicants, 65% a shortage of qualified candidates, and 21% each flagged transportation access and child-care availability as hiring barriers.
Transportation discussions highlighted bus-route and schedule limits that can keep workers from even applying, especially for employers outside city limits; the group proposed identifying firms that need employee shuttles and how to secure buses.
On resources, participants pushed more employer awareness of ACT WorkKeys and child-care programs such as Child Care Works, while also trying to reach college students and business leaders with available support.
Central Missouri Community Action said the effort is meant to be community-led after the meeting, with participants planning another session to keep refining the employment strategy.

With Missouri's child care waitlist growing, what is the immediate plan for parents who need to work now?

Can employer-funded shuttles fix a worker shortage if wages fail to cover soaring child care costs?