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onstruction employment saw gains in 31 states and the District of Columbia from February 2024 to February 2025, with 27 states adding jobs between January and February. However, a slowdown in job growth is evident amidst rising market uncertainty.

    According to Ken Simonson, chief economist at the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), contractors are becoming more cautious due to concerns about tariffs, retaliatory actions from international trading partners, and potential work authorization cancellations for foreign workers.

    Over the past year, Texas led the nation with a 2.6% increase in construction employment, adding 21,700 jobs. Florida followed closely with a similar 2.6% jump of 16,900 jobs. Other notable states include Ohio, Idaho, and North Carolina, which saw significant job gains.

    New Mexico posted the highest percentage increase in construction employment over the year, with a 12.2% growth adding 6,500 jobs. Conversely, California experienced the largest decline in construction jobs over the past year, shedding 14,900 jobs (-1.6%). Montana suffered the largest percentage loss (-6.4%, -2,400 jobs).

    In February, Ohio led the charge with an 8,200 job increase (3.3%), followed by Florida, Texas, Virginia, and Maryland. West Virginia saw the highest percentage gain at 4.5%, adding 1,500 jobs. Washington, however, lost 9,600 jobs (-4.3%) in February.

    The AGC is concerned about the challenges facing the industry due to evolving policies and is advocating for increased funding for domestic construction education and training programs. They also urge the administration to expand lawful entry opportunities for foreign workers in the construction sector.