PROVIDENCE – Rhode Island construction jobs across the state rose 11 percent between May 2016 and May 2017, growing from 18,400 jobs last year to 20,500 this year, a gain of 2,100 jobs in the industry in 12 months according to a new analysis of federal employment data by the Associated General Contractors of America.
Construction jobs in the Providence metro area also grew 11 percent year over year from 23,300 in May 2016 to 25,800 in 2017. The Providence metro ranked 21st overall for construction job growth.
In Massachusetts, statewide construction jobs grew 3 percent in 12 months, from 149,900 in 2016 to 152,600 in 2017.
Nationally, construction employment increased in 243 out of 358 metro areas during that time frame, declined in 59 and stagnated in 54. The AGCA noted that construction employment gains are being made across the country, even as firms report having a hard time finding qualified workers to hire. Officials said one of the key reasons for construction employee shortages is the lack of career and technical education programs available, particularly at the secondary level.
Click here to view the rankings by state.
Nicole Dotzenrod is a PBN staff writer.
