Nevada leads nation in private sector job growth
CARSON CITY — Nevada has reclaimed the top spot in the nation for rate of private sector job growth, marking a dramatic turnaround from the depths of decline during the economic recession, the governor's office announced Thursday.
Bill Anderson, Nevada's chief economist, said the latest labor statistics from the U.S. Department of Labor show Nevada added 45,100 jobs during the first quarter of 2015, equating to a growth rate of 4.4 percent.
The last time Nevada led the nation in private sector job growth was in 2005. Two years later the Great Recession and housing market collapse crippled the state's economy. In 2009 and 2010, Nevada's employment growth was last in the nation.
"This is a great milestone for our State and an indication that businesses and consumers are more confident in our economy," Sandoval said in a statement. "It is very encouraging to know that Nevada's population growth is supported by a foundation of a growing and diversified economy."
The governor said the state now has to "continue this positive momentum" by concentrating on workforce development and a modernized education system to meet the needs of a changing economy.
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