Kehoe Releases Workforce of the Future Report to Strengthen Missouri CTE

Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - Governor Mike Kehoe, along with the Departments of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and Higher Education and Workforce Development (DHEWD), has released the Executive Order 25-16 Workforce of the Future Challenge Report.

The plan outlines steps to modernize Missouri’s career and technical education (CTE) system and strengthen the state’s workforce pipeline. Over four months, educators, business leaders, and workforce experts gathered input from more than 5,600 Missourians.

The findings showed strong public support for CTE, with 92% of respondents viewing it positively and many stressing the need for expanded access, better advising, and stronger school-business partnerships. The report identifies three priority areas: expanding work-based learning and apprenticeships, improving early career counseling, and launching a statewide campaign to raise awareness about CTE.

State leaders say the recommendations will help prepare students for high-demand jobs while ensuring businesses have the skilled workers they need.