Labor Dept. Finds Increased Professional & Business Employment

The U.S. Department of Labor's most recent employment report found that 113,000 non-farming payroll positions were created in July. The national unemployment rate rose slightly, to 4.8 per cent, and average hourly earnings increased by 7 cents.

Non-farm fields reporting job growth include:

• Computer system design - 12,000 positions
• Architectural and engineering services - 10,000 positions
• Management and technical consulting - 6,000 positions
• Health care - 23,000 positions

Employment was either flat or declining in manufacturing, retail, construction, and financial services.

It's interesting to note that job growth is concentrated in fields that require special skills, education, or training. If anything, the Department of Labor's statistics probably understate the local demand for qualified employees in certain fields, especially health care. Nationwide, health care employment has risen by over a quarter of a million jobs in the last twelve months.

If you've been thinking about entering one of these fields, now may be the time to make your move. Demand is likely to remain high for the foreseeable future. As employers scramble to keep key positions staffed, you may even be able to find an employer or a government or non-profit program that will help you pay for your education and training.

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