Beyond The Initiative
The South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce (DEW) Labor Market Information (LMI) Division released its ten-year employment projections for 2022-2032, offering a detailed analysis of the state's economic outlook. According to the projections, South Carolina's job market is expected to grow significantly, with a projected increase of over 261,000 jobs, representing an 11.1% rise by 2032. The state's total employment is anticipated to surpass 2.6 million jobs, driven by strong growth in key sectors such as Education and Health Services, Trade, Transportation, and Utilities, and Professional and Business Services. Financial Activities and Information sectors are predicted to have the fastest annual growth rates, at 1.45% and 1.37% respectively, reflecting emerging opportunities in these areas.
On the occupational front, the analysis highlights the most robust areas for job creation and growth within South Carolina's labor market. Office and Administrative Support occupations are expected to remain the largest category, projected to employ over 315,000 people by 2032. However, the most significant job creation is forecasted in Transportation and Material Moving occupations, with nearly 35,000 new jobs anticipated. Food Preparation and Serving, as well as Sales occupations, are also expected to see substantial growth. Additionally, the Computer and Mathematical Occupations and Healthcare Support Occupations are projected to grow at the fastest rates, with annual increases of 2.17% and 2.15%, respectively, indicating a growing demand for skilled workers in these fields.