All Systems Go

"Utah led the nation in job growth in 2015, a signal that economic opportunity may be better in Utah than in any state."

That's the quote from Juliette Tennert, co-chairwoman of the Utah Economic Council and director of economic and public policy research at the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute. Tennert was speaking at the Salt Lake Chamber's annual Utah Economic Review breakfast at the Hilton Salt Lake City Center last week.

"Much of this growth was fueled by significant growth in Utah's technology, construction, and leisure and hospitality sectors," she continued. She also hinted that Utah's record-low unemployment rate could fall even lower, citing the fact that discouraged workers who have been "sitting on the sidelines" could return to the job market this year.

Carrie Mayne, chief economist for the Utah Department of Workforce Services, noted that construction was at an eight-year high in the Beehive State.

However, Darin Mellott, Utah Economic Council member and senior research analyst for commercial real estate firm CBRE, warned of complacency. While Utah isn't without its challenges - geopolitical unrest, educational funding for vocational programs, and even air quality issues - he said the state's economic fundamentals are strong. In other words, things are good, but let's not get too comfortable.

Playing on an old Utah quote, this is the place... and now is the time. UTCLC is here to help you renew or obtain your contractor's license. We've got everything from test prep to continuing ed. and a myriad of other tools and services to help you get on your way to an amazing career in construction. As far as the economic outlook in Utah for 2016, it's all systems go. So get started today!