SC Construction Jobs Report Mixed

The number of construction jobs in SC grew over the past year, though the number of jobs declined here in the Greenville metro area.

Statewide, construction employment grew 3 percent between February 2013 and February 2012, according to analysis of federal employment data by the Associated General Contractors of America.

The number of jobs hit 78,700, an increase of 2,500 positions, AGC said.

The Greenville metro area, which includes Mauldin, Simpsonville, Greer, Taylors, and Easley, saw a 3 percent decrease in jobs, while jobs in the Charleston area grew 3 percent. The Columbia metro area's jobs growth stayed even.

While construction is improving overall here and throughout the nation, there is no guarantee it will continue.

“The twin threats of additional public sector construction cuts and a looming shortage of certain types of construction workers could hurt the industry just as it is beginning to recover,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist.