Construction Employment Posts Widespread Growth as 38 States Add Workers For the Month
Strong demand for construction projects fueled job growth in Nov. in 38 states compared to Oct. and in all but six states over the past 12 months, according to analysis of Labor Department data released recently by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials said, however, that the shortage of available workers was likely keeping firms from expanding headcounts even more rapidly in many parts of the country.
"In nearly every state, contractors are busier now than a year ago," said Ken Simonson, chief economist for the association. "Employment is up, but the industry would be expanding even more rapidly if contractors could find enough qualified workers."