Employment and Workforce Executive Director Dan Ellzey’s Statement

November 2019 Employment Situation

“The employment numbers we are releasing today are built on the back of a robust economy and a thriving business community that continues to recruit, train and employ workers as fast as they can find them – but therein lies the challenge. While state agencies and organizations continue to plan and coordinate long-term education and skills training for South Carolina’s workforce, there are thousands of opportunities for jobseekers right now,” said Dan Ellzey, executive director of the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce. “There are individuals on the sidelines (people who are not working and are not looking for work) that could benefit from this environment, and we need them in the workforce. South Carolina has enjoyed growth in several industries including manufacturing, healthcare, technology, finance and insurance, all ready to hire, and there are dozens of trade industries offering skills training, job growth and career advancement actively seeking employees.

“For individuals who are not looking for work because they have challenges such as transportation, childcare, underemployment and more, the SC Works centers located throughout the state have professionals and services representing multiple agencies working to help people find jobs while addressing these obstacles.”

About the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce

The S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce is putting South Carolinians to work. The agency has four missions: (1) workforce development; (2) free job match employment services; (3) unemployment insurance; and (4) labor market information. All four missions contribute to workforce development. The agency is dedicated to advancing South Carolina through services and programs that meet the needs of our businesses, jobseekers and those looking to advance their careers.