According to new data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Utah’s 2016 veteran unemployment rate is 2.3 percent, ranking Utah as one of the top five states for veteran employment in the U.S. Since 2011, the veteran jobless rate has dropped from 8.1 percent to the current 2.3 percent.
“In Utah we take seriously our obligations to those who have served our country diligently in military service. Among the best ways to show our appreciation is by assisting these individuals in finding meaningful employment that takes advantage of their leadership experience and skills,” said Gov. Gary Herbert. “I am proud of how the Department of Workforce Services and the Department of Veterans and Military Affairs support and serve these exemplary men and women. God bless our veterans.”
“Utah’s unemployment rate for veterans is one of the best in the country,” said Gary Harter, executive director of the Department of Veterans and Military Affairs (VMA). “We have amazing men and women who serve our country and come back ready to contribute in the workplace, and a community of committed employers who recognize that veterans make terrific employees. We certainly have more to do, but this unemployment rate is indicative of the great programs and multitude of opportunities that Utah has for military service members, veterans and their families.”
Veterans labor force statistics are generated from BLS’s monthly Current Population Survey, which reports that the national veteran unemployment rate is 4.3 percent.
The Department of Workforce Services works closely with VMA to ensure supportive services are available to Utah’s veterans. These services include specialized workshops, programs that help connect military training skills to private sector occupations and proactive efforts to reach veterans who are currently receiving unemployment insurance.
“We have put a big emphasis on helping Utah veterans find employment,” said Jon Pierpont, executive director of the Department of Workforce Services. “It has taken the collaboration of employers and veterans alike to make this happen.”