Texas' job growth is once again bucking the national trend.
Weekly jobless claims nationwide rose to 353,000. Texas, on the other hand, saw one of the biggest drops. Two weeks ago, the state recorded 30,000 new claims. Last week, the state only had 19,000 new claims. James Bernsen, Deputy Communications Director at the Texas Workforce Commission, says in July the state added more than 80,000 new jobs.
“The numbers are certainly increasing in terms of the jobs out there. We actually have more jobs available in the state of Texas than we have people on unemployment,” Bernsen said. “So, there’s a lot of opportunity out there.”
Sectors where the TWC has noted job creation include Leisure and Hospitality, Professional and Business Services, and Manufacturing.
“There’s a huge need all throughout the state of Texas for nurses. So, we’re seeing a lot of positive movement, but we’re seeing some of those jobs where they’re looking for people,” Bernsen explained.
The state's unemployment rate fell in July to 6.2%.