Construction employment increased in 145 out of 339 metropolitan areas between January 2012 and January 2013, declined in 141 and was stagnant in 53, according to a new analysis of federal employment data released today by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials noted that after years of declining construction, employment contractors in some metro areas are beginning to worry about the availability of skilled workers now that they have resumed hiring. “Not only are a slight plurality of metro areas adding construction jobs, but those areas appear to be adding jobs at a faster rate than places where … Read more

Construction employment expanded in two-thirds of all states in January as the industry showed signs of emerging from a six-year slump, according to an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America of Labor Department data. Association officials cautioned, however, that the industry’s recovery remains fragile and that current and looming federal budget cuts threaten to drag down construction employment in numerous states. “These results show that contractors are finding work in more parts of the country than they have for many months,” said Ken Simonson, the association's chief economist. “Further gains appear likely but could be derailed if lawmakers … Read more

The construction industry added 48,000 jobs in February, the ninth consecutive month of job growth for the sector, as more people are working in construction than at any point in the last three and a half years, according to an analysis of new government data by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials cautioned, however, that employment gains remain tenuous and could be undermined if Washington officials fail to reach a deal on federal investment levels later this month. “With construction employment increasing by the largest amount for a single month in nearly six years, the steady improvement in … Read more