A uniquely skilled and educated population combined with a strong Midwestern work ethic is the formula for a highly productive workforce. All employment sectors — Government, Retail Trade, Health Care & Social Assistance, Accomodations & Food Services, Finance & Insurance, Manufacturing, Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services, Other Services (except public administration), and Construction — are broadly represented throughout the CORE region. This diversity lends stability to the regional economy.

The major employment anchors continue to be state government and the University of Missouri. Industries making significant contributions to this region’s economy include health care, insurance and financial headquarters, nationwide product distribution centers, the Ameren Callaway Nuclear Plant. Emerging industries playing increasingly larger roles in the economy include plant and animal sciences and data management centers.