Federal Infrastructure Package Critical to Sustaining Increases

Washington, DC – The Bureau of Labor Statistics today released the country’s August employment numbers, revealing steady employment growth in the construction industry. Of the 156,000 jobs created in August, 28,000 positions were filled in construction employment.

“Construction employment grew across every industry sector in August,” said Jack Jacobson, spokesperson for Construction Employers of America. “This is the first month in some time we’ve realized sustained job increases throughout the construction industry. While the growth is certainly encouraging, these gains are unlikely to be sustainable without congressional intervention in the form of a major infrastructure package.”

Specialty trade construction grew by over 15,000 positions, continuing to lead employment in the construction sector. Nonresidential specialty construction grew by nearly 4,000 jobs; residential specialty construction increased by 11,500 positions.

“When Congress invests in infrastructure, it creates jobs in every single state,” continued Jacobson. “We hope the House and Senate will make the infrastructure plan they promised last year a reality. Smart tax reform can also spur construction job growth by driving down costs and bringing back home significant overseas corporate earnings to be invested in American infrastructure.”

CEA’s seven employer associations include FCA International, International Council of Employers of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, Mechanical Contractors Association of America, National Electrical Contractors Association, Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning Contractors National Association, Signatory Wall and Ceiling Contractors Alliance, and The Association of Union Constructors. Our impact on the American economy is significant. We represent over 15,000 employers and 1.4 million employees nationwide. More information about CEA and our issues can be found online at www.constructionemployersofamerica.com.

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