Recent upswings in the construction employment numbers nationwide point to continued improvement in the health of the construction industry. In March, 2014, the construction industry added some 19,000 jobs, according to statistics reported in the Engineering News-Record. Many of these jobs were in specialty trades.
Over the past 12 months, the construction industry has added jobs in 37 states, according to Construction Equipment Guide. Further, early 2014 results show that 30 states saw increases in construction employment in January and February. These increases are based on data from the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC).
Florida saw the most jobs gained with a total of more than 39,000 new jobs, producing an 11 percent increase in construction and employment between February 2013 and February 2014. Nevada added nearly 6,000 jobs for a 10.4 percent increase, while Oregon gained 7000 jobs for a 9.8 percent increase. Minnesota added 7,900 jobs for an 8.1 increase.
Warmer climates were clear leaders in employment gains. Along with the numerous job gains in Florida, California saw a 6.2 percent increase of 38,000 jobs and Texas recorded a 3.9 percent increase with nearly 24,000 jobs.
Ten states, including Indiana, West Virginia and New Jersey, lost construction jobs over the same period. Three states reported consistent job numbers for the period.
Despite the encouraging construction job gains, the industry remains below its highest employment numbers. Industry professionals and trade groups, such as the AGC, encourage continued interest in large-scale construction and improvement projects, such as road construction, to maintain the momentum of the construction industry’s recovery.
With up-to-date information provided by Construction Monitor, you’ll be able to see who has received building permits in your area and who may need your products or services. Contact us today for more information on trends in construction employment and for details on how our building permit data services can help you market your company to the right customers.
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