en.Wedoany.com Reported - Data released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics on June 5 shows that the U.S. construction industry added approximately 17,000 jobs in May, a slight decline from the 18,000 jobs added in the previous month.
Among the new positions, the non-residential sector contributed about 15,700 jobs. Specialty trade contractors performed notably, adding roughly 11,400 positions in May; non-residential building contractors added about 1,700 workers, while heavy and civil engineering firms increased their workforce by 2,600 jobs.
The residential sector showed divergence: residential building contractors cut approximately 1,700 jobs in May, but residential specialty trade contractors added 2,600 workers during the same period.
Anarban Basu, chief economist at the Associated Builders and Contractors, commented in a press release that contractors are generally optimistic about the industry's outlook. He analyzed that strong demand for data center projects and continued growth in publicly funded construction activities are expected to support employment expansion in this sector in the coming months.
Basu also noted that the overall labor market performed better than expected, demonstrating macroeconomic resilience. However, he believes this may not necessarily be a positive signal for the construction industry, as strong employment data increases the likelihood of the Federal Reserve raising interest rates.
Ken Simonson, chief economist at the Associated General Contractors of America, emphasized in a press release that compared to the moderate employment growth across the industry, non-residential construction companies continue to hire and raise wages.
Simonson added that demand remains strong for data centers and their supporting power and manufacturing projects, all of which require a highly skilled, well-paid workforce.
The Associated General Contractors of America also warned in the press release that if Congress fails to pass a new highway and transportation bill by the end of September, overall employment levels in the construction industry could be impacted.
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