New federal data show fewer people are working or even looking for work, a trend that business leaders say is contributing to ongoing workforce shortages in Connecticut. About 720,000 workers left their jobs last month, according to new federal data, which is the lowest level seen in nearly 50 years outside of the pandemic.
Impact on Connecticut
Connecticut’s unemployment rate was 5.1% in May, higher than the national average. The CBIA Foundation Director, Dustin Nord, said there are currently about 80,000 open positions across the state, suggesting many employers are still struggling to fill jobs.
Nord said mismatched skill sets may be one reason some job seekers are not finding available positions. He said people willing to change careers or learn new skills can take advantage of state workforce development programs.
Skilled Trades Training
In Waterbury, an old school building is being renovated into a training facility where people can explore different skilled trades before entering the workforce. Classes are expected to begin in late fall once renovations are complete.
Industry leaders say skilled trades can offer long-term career opportunities. The Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Connecticut CEO, Jim Perras, said, “To be in a skilled labor workforce is really a great pathway to becoming a business owner.”
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut — read the source article.
