July 15, 2008 -- A new economic briefing by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce finds Oklahoma's job market remains one of the strongest in a seven-state-region. 
July 2008 Employment Briefing NEW!
Highlights:
- Oklahoma's economy created 3,900 jobs between April-May 2008, ranking it 6th nationally in terms of job creation.
- Oklahoma has created 21,300 jobs since May 2007.
- Oklahoma's manufacturing employment is up 6% over the past five years.
- Oklahoma's job market continues to outperform on both a national and regional level.
May 8, 2008 -- A new economic briefing by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, Research & Economic Analysis Division showcases the state's strong housing market and relatively low rate of foreclosures compared to the national scene. Oklahoma Economic Briefing: Mortgage Loans
Highlights:
- Oklahoma's rate of foreclosures remained relatively stable over the most recent five years.
- States that previously experienced rapid house price appreciation have recently seen a sharp increase in the rate of foreclosures as interest rates have been set to higher levels.
- The year-over-year change in foreclosure rates have increased by more than 250% in Florida, California and Nevada, but only 17% in Oklahoma.
Like other states throughout the country, Oklahoma constantly monitors its workforce to better understand the demographics of its talent pool. This information represents a crucial component needed to sustain and grow Oklahoma's existing businesses and to recruit new companies.
More than 30 labor force studies are now available for free download. Make sure your community and region are covered.
If your community isn't represented by one of our current labor force studies or you need updated data, contact Steven Barker, 405-815-5184 or 800-879-6552. If you contact the Oklahoma Department of Commerce before June, you'll only pay $4,920 for a customized labor force study compared to the regular price of $9,840.
The Oklahoma Department of Commerce has recently released a report and detailed tables from the Oklahoma Workforce Employer Survey.
The survey was conducted in the summer and fall of 2006 of all employers in the state with over 10 employees, with the exception of food and retail establishments. Over 2,800 surveys were returned and analyzed with assistance from the Oklahoma State Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, and the Governor's Council for Workforce and Economic Development.
The report shows that during the past year, Oklahoma has had a net increase of over 20,000 jobs. These jobs are increasingly diverse and many are in "knowledge economy" occupations. "With this expected growth, the kind of information this survey provides helps decision makers formulate the best possible solution to Oklahoma's workforce needs," said Sheri Stickley, Chief Administrative Officer for the Oklahoma Department of Commerce.
The report and data will be used by local Workforce Investment Boards across the state to help them determine the best possible solutions to their local workforce needs.
Businesses and local communities will also use the data to make decisions that will help them grow Oklahoma's workforce.
Follow the links below for the Survey Report and survey summary data sorted by Workforce Invesment Area and industry.
Workforce Survey Report 2006
Workforce Survey 2006 Data by Industry
Workforce Survey 2006 Data by WIA
