Construction Unemployment Falls to 9.8 Percent, Lowest June Level Since 2008

The unemployment rate for construction workers fell below double digits in June for the first time since 2008 as every segment of the industry added employees, according to an analysis of new government data by AGC of America. Association officials said the relatively positive jobs report for the sector highlights the need to address potential shortages of skilled and entry-level workers. “Construction employment in June was the highest since August 2009,” said Ken Simonson, the association's chief economist. “But employment is still down by one-quarter from the peak more than seven years ago. Many of those laid-off workers have left the industry—whether for employment elsewhere, more education or retirement—and construction companies face a looming worker shortage.” Read the full press release here. News covered by local TV and articles in the Sarasota Herald Tribune, Dayton Daily News, Albuquerque Business First, Baltimore Business Journal, Phoenix Business Journal, San Antonio Business Journal, Real Estate Weekly and International Construction.