Workforce Development Merger Creates Kansas WorkforceONE, Supporting 96 Counties

Southeast KANSASWORKS, Local Area V, is set to merge with Local Area I—Kansas WorkforceONE, Inc. on October 1, 2025, to provide comprehensive support to 96 out of 105 counties in the state. The new organization will be known as Kansas WorkforceONE and will support job seekers and companies in Montgomery County and beyond.  

“I believe this merger will expand and create opportunities in Montgomery County,” says Katie Givens, Executive Director of Southeast KANSASWORKS. “It’s an exciting time, and a time of change. Once the merger is complete, businesses and job seekers will be served better than before.”

If you aren’t familiar with the great work these organizations do, learn how they can help your company or people in your life as they navigate their careers. Strong workforce development resources like Kansas WorkforceONE can prepare Montgomery County for growth. 

Employers Will Have a Larger Labor Pool to Hire From 

Companies looking to hire in Kansas can benefit from working with an organization that supports 91% of the state. Kansas WorkforceONE can curate resumes from across the 96 counties it serves, allowing employers to find the best candidates, even if they’re across county lines.

“One of the most common pieces of feedback we’ve heard from employers is that every Local Area used to do things a little differently. With this merger, those boundaries are gone,” says Givens. “Now employers can focus on connecting with the right talent for their needs, no matter where that talent is located.”

This merger can also bring additional upskilling and job training opportunities. When job seekers have access to additional resources, they can strengthen their resumes and promote themselves as stronger candidates. Companies can also use these resources to support existing employees.

“There is tremendous potential for workforce development to expand and evolve,” says Givens.

The resources at Kansas WorkforceONE aren’t limited to large employers. Small businesses hiring for the first time can meet with representatives and review potential candidates and their skills. 

Job Seekers Can Step Into New Careers

Givens explains that most job seekers won’t see a significant difference in services following the merger. Kansas WorkforceONE will continue to operate all Workforce Centers known as “KANSASWORKS Southeast”. Their buildings aren’t changing, and the KANSASWORKS Southeast representatives will continue to offer services to support resume development, interview preparation, and other aspects of the job search.  

“With this merger, we expect to have a more robust offering for the community to help them become job-ready or change their careers,” says Givens.

The team at KANSASWORKS Southeast won’t update your resume or apply for jobs for you, but they will work to build up your skills so you can more effectively seek employment. The organization also hosts job fairs and events to better connect employers with job seekers.  

KANSASWORKS Southeast is often the first to respond when there are employment disruptions, like mass layoffs or company closures. The organization is known for its rapid response and diverse support systems. It also specializes in serving community members with barriers to employment, like people with disabilities, those involved in the justice system, and young adults with limited work experience.

“It is vital for us to be here for our communities and offer these services,” says Givens. “For job seekers, we are here to prepare you for work. There’s value in all occupations and vocations.”

Kansas WorkforceONE Can Strengthen Montgomery County

Southeast KANSASWORKS has been a trusted partner of Montgomery County Action Council (MCAC) for several years and will continue to support the community through this merger. Even companies that aren’t going through periods of change can benefit from the hiring services and incumbent worker training programs offered by this workforce development partner. Workers looking for new careers can grow their skills and strengthen what Montgomery County has to offer investors and employers considering the region.

“We can’t do this alone,” says Givens. “We have so many community-based partners like MCAC that help us do this work together. We benefit from our relationships together.”

Givens also touches on the value that Kansas WorkforceONE will provide to Montgomery County as it is poised for change.

“When I go to Independence and Coffeyville, the towns are vibrant,” she says. “I see thriving communities and excited entrepreneurs. When you think about today’s workforce, it’s not enough to focus on jobs. People want connections to the community, and Montgomery County brings that to the plate.”  

Montgomery County Has Several Workforce Resources

Along with a healthy partnership with Kansas WorkforceONE, MCAC has internal programs that support workforce development. Read about Love, Montgomery County, which supports job placement and relocation to the area. These incentives bring people to Montgomery County and encourage them to stay with local employers. Other programs by MCAC, like the small business development center (SBDC), help diversify the economy and create opportunities in new fields.

Montgomery County is a wonderful place to live, but it also has opportunities for employment, career growth, and hiring. Discover why more people and businesses are moving to this part of Kansas.