Change since August of last year

The region's August report presents a deceptively positive picture. The unemployment rate decreased year-over-year, while both the labor force and employment levels increased. However, labor force growth slowed significantly compared to last year. This means the lower unemployment rate is partly attributable to discouraged workers leaving the labor force rather than job creation. Employer demand also weakened with online job postings declining over the year.  

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Benefits that support workers

Employers spend trillions on wages and benefits, yet many workers remain financially unstable. With limited data on effective solutions, companies struggle to optimize benefits for financial well-being among their workforce. A new study from the Financial Health Network reveals which compensation elements are linked to improved worker financial health. Financial stability in people’s lives leads to lower turnover, higher productivity, and a stronger workforce.

Career pathways from conservation corps

Service and conservation corps programs, which engage young adults in projects like trail building, habitat restoration, and disaster response, offer a promising pathway to infrastructure careers at a time when the U.S. struggles to hire and retain skilled workers in these fields. A recent Brookings report identifies 81 corps-related occupations that pay competitive wages and require relatively low formal education, but these positions face significant workforce gaps due to aging workers and lack of diversity. Corps programs, including Louisville’s Urban Conservation Corp, can serve as vital talent pipelines while helping young adults transition into sustainable careers in infrastructure, skilled trades, and environmental management.

Support for local African refugees 

A recent Courier Journal article featured KentuckianaWorks’ board member Kevin Uyisenga and his organization See Forward Ministries, which aims to help Louisville’s community of East Africans find opportunity and success in their new home. 

The Labor Market Update is a monthly report produced by KentuckianaWorks, the Louisville region's Workforce Development Board. The report gives Louisville's policymakers and business leaders an overview of the local economy through powerful visuals and concise analysis.