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Jobs grow in Texas
Published November 21, 2009
The number of Texans looking for work last month increased despite gains in most employment sectors.
Total nonagricultural employment in the state increased by 41,700 positions in October with significant increases in professional and business services, education and health service
positions.
However, overall, the Texas jobless rate rose slightly to 8.3 percent in October, up from 8.2 percent a month ago. That number still is well below the national average of 10.2 percent.
In Kerr County, overall unemployment numbers dropped slightly in October from 6 percent to 5.8, according to the Texas Workforce Commission.
“In October, the Texas job market regained some lost ground experienced over the past several months, although it is too soon to indicate a trend,” said Tom Pauken, Texas Workforce Commission chairman. “The Texas unemployment rate continued to edge upward as our state continues to feel the effects of the national economic downturn.”
Education and health services saw the biggest growth with the addition of 14,900 jobs. Professional and business services added 10,800 positions and the financial sector grew by 4,500
positions.
“Reports of job gains in October are good news and certainly better than the alternative, but we remain concerned about the many Texans who still cannot find work,” said Ronny Congleton, TWC commissioner representing labor. “We want to encourage those seeking work to take advantage of the job-search and training services available at our workforce centers across Texas.”
While the news mostly was positive, the construction industry continued to take a beating, losing 9,400 more jobs in October. Employment in leisure and hospitality as well as trade, transportation and utilities experienced minor increases.
“We are encouraged by increased employment reports across most industries in October, specifically in the service providing sector, which includes health care, business and finance,” said Andres Alcanta, TWC commissioner representing the public. “TWC and the 28 local workforce development boards remain determined to help out-of-work Texans find jobs.”
Nationally, jobless rates increased in 29 states, with 13 states having unemployment above the national average of 10.2 percent.
Michigan leads the nation with unemployment reaching
15.1 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor. Early in November, the Labor Department reported the nation’s unemployment rate rose above 10 percent for the first time since 1983.
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