Minnesota Ekes Out February Job Gain

(KNSI) – February was quiet on the employment front in Minnesota.

Figures released on Thursday show the jobless rate remaining flat at 2.7%. Only 100 positions were created statewide, coming from the public sector. About 1,000 people entered the labor force, with the participation rate stuck at 67.9%.

The employment picture was more robust nationally, growing by 0.2%. The labor force participation rate for the United States is significantly below Minnesota’s level at about 62.5%.

Department of Employment and Economic Development Deputy Commissioner Kevin McKinnon says his agency continues to work hard to fill positions in vital, understaffed sectors. “There are many job openings in the state, and we’re focused on connecting people who need work with openings that match their skills. Job growth only happens when there are workers to fill open jobs. Our Drive for 5 initiative announced earlier this week will help prepare people for open positions in key fields: caring professions, education, manufacturing, technology and the trades.”

Professional and business services saw job gains in February. Construction was down by 3,000. Trade, transportation, and utilities fell 600.

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