Tennessee continues to triumph in the employment race with an unemployment rate that remains consistently below the national average, this according to the latest dispatch from the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD). As of October, the Volunteer State reported a marginal uptick to 3.3% in unemployment, yet this minor increase still keeps them in the lead against a 4.1% national rate.
This year, Tennessee hit a record low in unemployment, marking a consistent 3% over three months. Despite the recent rise, the state's 3.3% is still notably under its October 2023 rate. Meanwhile, the national unemployment rate remains at 4.1%, signifying no change from the previous month and an increase of three-tenths of a percentage point year-over-year.
The metrics are not just about the unemployed but also about the jobs gained. Between September and October this year, the state saw 2,600 nonfarm jobs created. Education and health services lead the pack in job increases, followed by the government and manufacturing sectors, representing a diverse and growing economy.
Looking over the year, Tennessee's employment landscape has added 45,200 jobs. The sectors responsible for these gains are, in sequence, education and health services, the trade, transportation, and utilities sectors, and the mining, logging, and construction sectors. These numbers are available through a complete analysis prepared by the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD) and accessible to those who wish to dig through the data.
With National Apprenticeship Week slated for November 17-23, Tennessee turns the spotlight on its celebration with month-long conferences and events. Apprenticeships offer a win-win situation; workers earn while they learn hands-on skills, and employers benefit from well-trained, loyal employees. Stats show that Tennessee boasts over 9,500 apprentices involved in 431 active programs. Interested parties can find further details on getting involved in these apprenticeships here.
