Employment and Workforce Executive Director William Floyd's Statement 

April 2024 Employment Situation 

Columbia, S.C. – “April’s employment numbers show steady growth as South Carolina continues to set employment records with the number of people working increasing to 2,404,450, and the labor force participation rate ticking up to 57.2%,” said S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce (DEW) Executive Director William Floyd. “The unemployment rate nudged up to 3.2% from last month's estimate of 3.1% as more people entered the labor force looking for work.”

“This positive news comes as students around the state begin making summer plans for part-time work. DEW has been focusing on student employment through our SC@Work: School to Success recognition month,” said Floyd. “With job fairs, hiring events, and the efforts of our Regional Workforce Advisors, our agency has been busy helping young people develop their resumes, reinforce their soft skills, and connect with job opportunities in South Carolina.”

“Earlier this month, for example, our agency announced a partnership with Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, unveiling the Youth Employment Site, a job board specifically advertising work opportunities for teens. This site helps connect young people and their parents to local employers who can expand their options and provide the foundation for any successful career. In addition, this summer I am traveling with the Lt. Gov. to meet with employers who hire and train young people for their workforce. These engagements will highlight the importance and benefits of youth employment for both teens and employers,” continued Floyd.

“While May is SC@Work: School to Success month, our work with employers throughout the year includes conversations about how to support and engage the rising workforce. South Carolina’s young people are our future – our future graduates, community leaders, and of course, our labor force. The lessons they learn today will ultimately shape the adults they become, highlighting the importance of giving them the tools and skills they need to succeed in whatever postsecondary path they choose,” concluded Floyd.