Thursday, November 16, 2006
Contact: Brian Hauswirth, 573-751-0290
Blunt Pleased with Missouri’s Jobs Outlook
More than 200,000 openings projected through 2007
JEFFERSON CITY–Gov. Matt Blunt is pleased with the state’s job outlook projected to have more than 200,000 job openings through 2007.
Among the top 20 occupations with the most growth potential are five computer and mathematical occupations, five construction and extraction occupations and four education-related occupations.
“Missouri’s projected job growth is strong indication that the state has created an environment favorable for job creation. I am thrilled that more Missourians are finding employment in quality, family supporting jobs,” Blunt said. “One thing to remember is that hard working people, not government, create opportunities. Missouri’s economic strength is due to these individuals who have chosen to invest in our state.”
The listing was compiled by the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC) using data from Short-Term Occupational Projections, Occupational Employment and Wage Surveys and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. MERIC is the research arm of the Missouri Department of Economic Development.
Network systems and data communications analysts are projected to grow the most rapidly, increasing almost 9.5 percent from 2005 to 2007.
Missouri is projected to have 483 openings statewide for computer software engineers, with an average annual wage of $73,690. Kansas City is projected to have 139 openings for computer software engineers, with an average annual wage of $71,260. St. Louis is projected to have 282 openings for computer software engineers, with an average annual wage of $77,890.
For additional information, visit the MERIC website at www.missourieconomy.org or call Gregg Ochoa at (573) 751-9065.
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