Connecticut Workforce Shrinks as 80,000 Open Jobs Spur Skilled Trades Training
Updated
Updated · NBC Connecticut · Jul 3
Connecticut Workforce Shrinks as 80,000 Open Jobs Spur Skilled Trades Training
1 articles · Updated · NBC Connecticut · Jul 3
Summary
Federal data showed fewer Connecticut residents are working or looking for work, deepening labor shortages even as employers report about 80,000 open positions statewide.
About 720,000 workers left their jobs last month nationally—the lowest level in nearly 50 years outside the pandemic—and business groups said retirements and demographic shifts are shrinking the available labor pool.
Connecticut’s 5.1% May unemployment rate still sits above the national average, pointing to a skills mismatch that leaves some job seekers unable to fill available roles.
Waterbury is converting an old school into a skilled-trades training center, with late-fall classes planned in plumbing, HVAC, electrical and carpentry for newcomers and career changers.
Industry leaders say the push reflects a broader strategy to upskill workers and steer more residents into construction and other trades that can offer long-term careers.