Construction Jobs Represent Nearly a Quarter of Recent Job Growth Reported in Today's U.S. Report
Summary
The U.S. construction sector added 33,000 jobs in January 2026, representing nearly a quarter of total job growth, highlighting its role as a key driver of economic expansion and innovation in the industry.
Why It Matters
This job growth in construction underscores the sector's importance to the U.S. economy, reflecting ongoing investments in infrastructure and private development. It also signals a shift towards advanced technologies and workforce development, essential for meeting future demands.
Key Takeaways
- Construction jobs accounted for 25% of the total U.S. job growth in January 2026.
- The sector's growth is linked to sustained infrastructure investment and private development.
- Contractors are investing in advanced equipment and digital tools to enhance efficiency.
- The upcoming CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 will showcase innovations in construction technology.
- Safety and workforce development are becoming top priorities as hiring accelerates.
Megan Tanel, President & CEO of AEM, released the following statement in response to the U.S. Labor Department’s Jobs Report released on February 11, 2026. AEM represents more than 1,100 companies that drive the construction industry growth and owns and manages the upcoming CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, March 3-7 in Las Vegas, where this needed job growth momentum, paired with technological advances, and efficiency and sustainability are unveiled. “As the U.S. economy added 130,000 jobs in January, the construction industry accounted for 33,000 of those new positions, nearly one in four jobs created nationwide. “Construction continues to be a powerful engine of economic growth. Strong hiring reflects sustained infrastructure investment, private development activity and long-term confidence in the build environment. “With hiring accelerating, contractors are increasingly investing in advanced equipment, digital tools and workforce development strategies to scale efficiently and safely. This news comes just as we are preparing for CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, North America’s largest construction trade show, where industry leaders will gather to promote automation, the next generation of jobsite technology and address workforce growth. “We continue to see a clear connection between economic momentum and innovation. As demand grows, the industry is responding with smarter equipment and new training pathways to ensure projects stay on track, in budget and with safety as a top priority.” Inter...
