Labor and workforce development
What is labor and workforce development?
Our Labor & Workforce Development Programs strengthen Missouri’s workforce by equipping employers, employees, and communities with the tools and strategies needed to thrive in a changing economy. We provide training, data resources, and technical assistance to enhance talent pipelines, retention efforts, leadership skills, and workforce resilience.
A key initiative, Recovery Friendly Workplace, helps employers build supportive environments that reduce stigma, promote safety, and assist employees navigating substance use challenges. Through hands-on training, consultation, and peer networks, participating organizations adopt proven practices that improve retention, morale, and overall workplace well-being.
Across our portfolio, we collaborate with business leaders, workforce agencies, and community partners to align local strengths with statewide opportunities. Whether you’re addressing labor shortages, developing leadership capacity, or preparing for future workforce shifts, our programs deliver practical, research-based solutions that help Missouri’s businesses and workers succeed together.
Programs
Heroes to Hives
Missouri is the first state chapter of the national Heroes to Hives program. Heroes to Hives is a unique program offered through the Michigan Food & Farming Systems that seeks to address financial and personal wellness of veterans through free professional training and community development centered around beekeeping.
Labor Education Program
The Labor Education Program, a continuing education unit of MU Extension, is located at the University of Missouri in Columbia. The program has been engaged in the development and delivery of high-quality leadership training programs for trade union leaders in Missouri and other Midwestern states since 1964.
Missouri Beginning Farmers and Ranchers
Blend experiential learning to grow your farm Missouri beginning farmers program is a new pilot of training workshops, educational classes, internships and customized one-on-one technical assistance. The goal is to provide information and to assist those who are interested in farming.
MU Career Accelerator
Whether you’re an employer looking to strengthen your workforce or an individual looking to advance in your career, MU's Career Accelerator offers industry-driven education with a variety of custom trainings, courses and certifications to meet your needs.
