FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 18, 2019
Contact:
Mathew Barewicz, E & LMI Chief
State of Vermont
Department of Labor
Mathew.Barewicz@vermont.gov
802-828-4153
Vermont’s Unemployment Rate Increases to 2.2 Percent for September
Today, the Vermont Department of Labor released data on the Vermont economy for the time period
covering September 2019. According to household data, the seasonally-adjusted statewide
unemployment rate for September was 2.2 percent. This reflects an increase of one-tenth of onepercentage
point from the revised August rate. If this preliminary data holds, it would be the first
increase to the unemployment rate since April 2009. As of last month’s data, Vermont had the lowest
seasonally-adjusted statewide unemployment rate in the country.
“While this month’s report shows a slight increase in the unemployment rate, it is important to note
that the data provided is preliminary and likely to be adjusted over time as more detailed information
becomes available. Even with this increase, Vermont’s rate remains one of the lowest in the country,
making it hard for businesses to fill vacant positions with skilled talent. In continuing our efforts to
bolster Vermont’s workforce, the Department is excited to announce that October 2019 has been
proclaimed ‘Careers in Construction Month’. In Vermont, construction accounts for more than 5% of
the workforce with roughly 15,000 jobs, and an average wage of $51,000 per year, which is above
the statewide average. This is a great opportunity to encourage young people to explore the diverse
employment options within this important industry, as well as the wide variety of training programs
offered through the Department of Labor. Please join us in celebrating ‘Careers in Construction
Month’,” said Labor Commissioner Michael Harrington.
View the full press release at: http://www.vtlmi.info/press.pdf