_med.png)
We use data from Chmura Economics at the end of every month to create a report illustrating the current and future workforce demand in our 10-county region. This report helps us understand the workforce challenges we face and provides a framework for planning and measurement.
Current and Future Job Openings
As of May 2024, there are 8,674 open positions in the 10-county region, with over 89,000 open positions within a 60-mile radius in targeted sectors like construction, healthcare, hospitality, manufacturing, professional services, public services, transportation, distribution, and logistics.
10-Year Demand
Looking ahead, the region will need over 168,000 workers in the next decade. Here's a breakdown of some key roles:
- 3,800+ entry-level manufacturing workers
- 1,676 registered nurses
- 3,977 material handlers
- 2,901 semi-truck drivers
- 707 welders
- 814 industrial machinery mechanics
- New engineers: 359 industrial, 160 mechanical, 107 civil, 64 electrical
Top Job Postings
Registered nurses top the list with 653 job postings, followed by heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers with 397 postings.
Labor Force Participation
Kentucky's labor force participation rate has improved slightly from 57.3% in March 2021 to 57.6% recently.