Alabama employment reaches historic high, says Secretary Greg Reed

Alabama Secretary of Workforce Greg Reed announced that employment in the state has reached a historic high, with more Alabamians working than at any other point in the state's history.

According to Reed, the state has added approximately 20,000 jobs over the past year. He attributed this growth to diverse economic sectors, including shipbuilding, submarine construction, and pharmaceutical developments such as Eli Lilly in northern Alabama.

Despite the record employment numbers, Reed noted a slight increase in unemployment and a dip in the overall workforce participation rate. He clarified that much of the non-participation is due to residents over the age of 55. He expressed particular concern regarding workforce participation among younger demographics, aged 16 to 26, and emphasized the need to connect young people with available skills and jobs.

Reed also stressed the importance of statewide economic development, noting that growth must extend beyond major metropolitan areas and interstate corridors to ensure long-term success.