Softball and volleyball seasons end at districts
October 21, 2026
The City of Joplin has selected Eric Parker, of Webb City, as its next director of information technology.
Parker, a longtime Joplin-area IT professional, served for 26 years at TAMKO Building Products. He previously held IT roles at NPC International and Leggett & Platt.
“This was a competitive national search, and when we had the opportunity to meet Eric, it was clear that his broad level of experience would be a very good fit for the city,” said City Manager Nick Edwards. “He has a tremendous level of experience in managing enterprise systems and programs, and he stood out amongst other candidates due to his depth and breadth of IT expertise. This is a very important role, and I’m thrilled to be welcoming Eric to our team.”
Parker, a graduate of Webb City High School and Missouri Southern State University, earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science with a double major in mathematics and computer information systems. Over the course of his career, he has gained experience with ERP systems, cybersecurity, and the management of hardware and software lifecycles.
In his role at IT director for Joplin, he will be responsible for serving as the technology architect for city government – evaluating, onboarding and maintaining dozens of systems that support and connect the city’s 15 departments and approximately 600 employees working in multiple locations throughout Joplin. He will ensure the IT department delivers on the city’s technological priorities, serves as guardian of the city’s data, and will be a key liaison to external partners in terms of technology initiatives.
Parker will be the city’s second director of IT – he follows Mark Morris, who retired last month, after 25 years of service.
“I am excited and honored to have the opportunity to serve as the city of Joplin’s new IT director,” says Parker. “I look forward to working alongside city leadership and staff to support technology needs, strengthen IT services, and help ensure our systems continue to meet the needs of our employees and community.
“I can’t wait to build relationships, contribute to the city’s success and embrace the opportunities ahead.” He will begin his new position on Monday, Oct. 26.
Arvest Bank has promoted Carson Whalen to the position of branch sales manager in Webb City. Whalen began his career with Arvest in 2024, and he most recently served as a relationship banker.
In this new role, Whalen will oversee the daily bank operations of the MacArthur Drive branch, manage customer relationships, and set sales and service goals for the branch associates.
“I am excited to see Carson step into this management role at our Webb City branch,” said Jana Smith, branch administrator for Arvest Bank–Joplin. “We are committed to serving the community here and know his leadership and guidance will be an asset for both our customers and associates.”
