The results of a Bozeman Chamber of Commerce workplace survey were shared with Gallatin County community members on Wednesday.
The report looked at workforce barriers that people face, wage information, and projections of future growth.
“Average annual growth in Gallatin County from 2012 to 2015 was 4.8 percent compared to just 1.3 percent statewide,” said Emily Klungtvedt, senior economist for the Montana Dept. of Labor and Industry’s Research and Analysis Bureau.
Construction, accommodation and food services, and healthcare added the most jobs, while the high tech industry added the highest wages, but there’s still an issue with labor force shortages.
“The problem isn’t with a lack of degree; it’s likely with a skills mismatch,” Klungtvedt said.
To combat labor force shortages, the county is looking to Gallatin College students to fill these jobs since 67 percent of them stay after they receive their two-year degree.
“This is very much aligned with our city strategic plan, which talks about an innovative economy and our economic development plan which is very focused on workforce development and supporting Gallatin College,” Director of Economic Development Brit Fontenot said.
The cost of childcare, the population of full-time students, and retirees were other issues that the report showed contributed to labor force shortages.
