The Texas Workforce Commission reported earlier this month the unemployment rate in the Austin-Round Rock Metropolitan Statistical Area rose from May 2024 to June 2024.

The unemployment rate rose to 3.8%, or 56,143 unemployed residents. Despite this uptick, Austin’s unemployment rate remains below the state and national averages of 4.5% and 4.3%, respectively. 

The Austin-Round Rock area saw an increase of 4,900 jobs over the past month, contributing to an annual growth rate of 1.7%, adding 22,500 jobs since June 2023. 

Industries that experienced regional job growth from May to June include mining, logging and construction, which added 1,600 jobs. Trade, transportation and utilities increased by 1,200 jobs, while manufacturing saw an increase of 800 jobs.

Mining, logging and construction experienced the greatest regional job growth over the past 12 months with an increase of 4.7%, followed by other services, which grew by 4.2%.

Other industries that experienced monthly job growth include private education and health services, which added 700 jobs; 600 new government jobs; 400 new jobs in leisure and hospitality; 400 new jobs in other services and 300 new jobs in financial activities.

In response to the unemployment rate, the Workforce Solutions Capital Area will host a director and teacher symposium in August in collaboration with Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area. 

The event is meant to provide early childhood educators in Central Texas with networking opportunities for professional development and to strengthen the future workforce by fostering professional growth among early childhood education professionals. 

Tamara Atkinson, CEO of Workforce Solutions Capital Area, said she is enthusiastic about the event. She said the organizations are advancing educational excellence in Central Texas with support from volunteers and experts.

“It’s a pleasure to collaborate with Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area to help improve teaching effectiveness and student outcomes in Central Texas,” Atkinson said. “Having educators come together to share their knowledge helps cultivate our local workforce efforts with new ideas and vital, proven strategies.”