Twenty-four states added construction jobs in May as contractors continue to struggle to find workers, according to Associated General Contractors of America. Forty-two states and Washington, D.C., added construction jobs during the past year.
“Contractors remain busy nationwide, with bulging order books for future work,” said Ken Simonson, AGC’s chief economist. “But they are having trouble filling job openings when the industry unemployment rate is only 3.5%. That probably accounts for the recent lack of job gains in many states.”
California added the most construction jobs from April to May—6,500—and Louisiana had the largest percentage increase of construction jobs for the month—1.3%. During the past 12 months, Texas added the most construction jobs—21,100—and Arkansas had the largest percentage increase—10.2%
Indiana lost the largest number of construction jobs (-2,500) for the month, and Rhode Island had the largest percentage decline (-4.9%). During the past 12 months, Colorado lost the most construction jobs (-1,800) and Connecticut had the largest percentage decline (-2.6%).
Association officials urged federal officials to boost funding for construction education programs.
“Many more people would likely be working in high-paying construction careers today if they had a chance to learn about the profession when they were in school,” said AGC CEO Stephen E. Sandherr. “Showing students that you can work in a team, earn a great living and build projects that will last for decades will encourage more people to pursue careers in construction.”
