The following is a news release from the Texas Workforce Commission.
Texas total nonfarm employment was up by 47,900 jobs in October representing the addition of 172,800 jobs in the last year. The Texas unemployment rate remained at 8.1 percent in October and continued to trend well below the U.S. unemployment rate for October at 9.6 percent.
"Every major industry added jobs in October with notable increases in Construction employment," said Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Chairman Tom Pauken. "Texas recorded its second month with an unemployment rate at 8.1 percent, the lowest rate of 2010."
Construction industry employment increased by 8,800 positions in October, the largest monthly increase since April 2010. Mining and Logging added 1,200 jobs in October representing job growth of 30,800 over the past year. Employment in Manufacturing increased by 1,100 jobs in October for a total of 26,400 jobs added since October 2009.
"Job growth continued in October creating opportunities for Texas workers," said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Ronny Congleton. "For those qualified Texas workers who remain unemployed, TWC and the 28 boards across the state stand ready to assist job seekers."
Professional and Business Services employment increased by 4,200 jobs in October representing the addition of 50,600 jobs since last year. Employment in Education and Health Services increased by 5,400 jobs in October for a total of 38,800 jobs over the year.
"Texas employers displayed confidence by adding jobs in all industries in October, and the majority of industries are recording gains over the year as well," said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Andres Alcantar. "Staff at TWC and the 240 workforce centers across the state remain committed to providing recruitment assistance to Texas employers and job-search services for workers."
Business News
In October, Leisure and Hospitality employment increased 2,400 positions; Trade, Transportation and Utilities was up 1,300 jobs; Information employment increased by 1,000 jobs; and Financial Activities employment increased by 800 positions. Government experienced an increase of 19,100 jobs in October, but remained down 4,500 positions over the year.
The Midland Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) had the lowest October unemployment rate in the state at 5.1 percent. The Amarillo MSA had the second lowest unemployment rate in October at 5.4 percent, followed by the Lubbock and College Station-Bryan MSAs at 5.9 percent (not seasonally adjusted).
