St. Louis Jobs Boosted by Workforce Board Reappointments
St. Louis is getting a renewed boost of leadership as Mayor Cara Spencer officially reappoints key members to the St. Louis Workforce Development Board (SLWDB). This strategic move ensures continuity in oversight for the city’s critical employment programs through December 31, 2027. By securing experienced leadership for the next two years, the city aims to maintain momentum in connecting local talent with meaningful employment opportunities. Heres a summary of the Mayor’s appointment s and it’s impact on St. Louis jobs.
With the landscape of work constantly evolving, having a steady hand at the helm of workforce development is crucial. This reappointment signals a commitment to stability and growth for both job seekers and the business community in the region.
Strengthening the Pipeline for St. Louis Jobs
The St. Louis Workforce Development Board plays a pivotal role in the economic health of the region. It provides strategic leadership and oversight for programs implemented by the St. Louis Agency on Training and Employment (SLATE). The 25-member board acts as the bridge between public policy and practical application, ensuring that St. Louis jobs remain accessible and that training programs align with actual market needs.
A Diverse Coalition of Leaders
The board is not just a group of administrators; it is a volunteer coalition appointed by the Mayor. It represents a cross-section of the local economy, including:
- Local businesses
- Labor organizations
- Public agencies
- Community partners
This diversity ensures that when decisions are made about workforce funding or program direction, multiple perspectives are considered. It helps guarantee that the skills being taught match the skills employers are actively seeking.
Related: For more insights on community leadership and local economic impact, check out the latest updates at The Narrative Matters.
Meet the Reappointed Leaders Driving STL Jobs
Mayor Spencer has renewed the terms for a specific group of dedicated members whose previous terms were set to expire at the end of 2025. These individuals bring expertise ranging from higher education to infrastructure and social services.
Reappointed SLWDB Members include:
- Lakesha Mathis: Vice President, Strategy, Greater St. Louis, Inc.
- Jerri Bowles: Director of Job Center Services, Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development
- William Bell: Technology Infrastructure Coordinator, Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council
- Mary Lamie: Executive Vice President of Multimodal Enterprises, Bi-State Development
- Allison Deno: Chief of Schools, St. Louis Public Schools
- Keyvan Gerami: Dean of Continuing Education & Workforce Development, Ranken Technical College
- Charlotte Hammond: President & CEO, Challenge Unlimited
- Regina Greer: Chief Impact Officer, United Way of Greater St. Louis
- Danita Neal: Executive Director, Heavenly Sent In Home Care
- Michelle Graham: Work Engagement Correspondence & Information Specialist, Missouri Department of Social Services
- Roger Spearman: President/Owner, A-1 Private Investigations, LLC
- Suzanne Agin: Community Development Director & Senior Vice President, Stifel Bank and Trust
Leadership for the Future of Workforce Development
SLATE Executive Director Connie L. Johnson expressed strong support for the Mayor’s decision. She emphasized that the commitment of these volunteers is vital for the city’s progress.
âThe expertise and commitment of our volunteer board members are essential to strengthening St. Louisâ workforce,â said Johnson. âTheir collaboration with SLATE and the State of Missouri helps create opportunities for both job seekers and employers across the city. We are grateful for their continued partnership.â
This collaboration is what turns administrative goals into real-world paychecks for residents. Whether it is a young person looking for an apprenticeship or a seasoned professional pivoting careers, the board’s oversight ensures the systems meant to help them are functioning efficiently.
Upcoming Milestones for the Board
The work begins immediately. In January 2026, the Board has a full agenda. They will conduct officer elections to establish internal leadership for the new term. Furthermore, they must complete required actions related to the SLATE Missouri Job Center recertification.
They will also be working on updates to the SLWDB Local Plan in accordance with the Missouri Division of Workforce Development. These administrative steps are critical for maintaining compliance and funding flow, which ultimately supports the creation of more St. Louis jobs.
For those interested in the broader scope of state-level initiatives, visit the Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development for detailed reports and job seeker tools.
Conclusion
The reappointment of the St. Louis Workforce Development Board members is more than a procedural formality; it is a reinvestment in the city’s human capital. With experienced leaders from Ranken Technical College, St. Louis Public Schools, and major local corporations guiding the ship, the city is well-positioned to tackle the employment challenges of 2026 and 2027. As these leaders get to work, the focus remains clear: building a stronger, more employable St. Louis.
#STLJobs #WorkforceDevelopment #Leadership
