According to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC), employment in the South Central region totaled more then 85,803 during 2021, and is projected to grow by 4% by 2028.
Occupations which have the best outlook with an above average growth rate and annual wage when compared to all occupations in the region are projected to have over 15,000 job openings between 2018 and 2028. These occupations normally require a minimum of a certificate, associate's degree, or apprenticeship.