Hagåtña, Guam – Guam’s unemployment rate continued its downward trend, reaching 3.4% as of September 2024, marking a 0.7% decrease from the same period a year before, according to the latest figures released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics at the Guam Department of Labor (GDOL). This decline reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen the island’s workforce, and workforce participation remains influenced by various personal and economic factors.

“The drop in unemployment is a positive indicator of our economy’s resilience and the effectiveness of workforce programs. At the same time, understanding shifts in employment trends is key to ensuring all residents have access to meaningful job opportunities, and our administration remains dedicated to creating pathways that support long-term career growth and economic stability for our community,” said Governor Lou Leon Guerrero. “This is a testament to our administration’s leadership in moving forward a strong and prosperous economy aimed at lifting the quality of our lives.”

“As we acknowledge the reduction in unemployment, we must also focus on those who remain on the sidelines,” said Lt. Governor Joshua Tenorio. “Our goal is not just to reduce unemployment but to expand the overall labor force participation by equipping individuals with the skills and support they need to thrive in Guam’s evolving economy.”

Although some individuals are currently in the workforce as unemployed, this can often be explained by frictional unemployment—people temporarily between jobs or transitioning into new opportunities. It also accounts for students focusing on education, retirees, and caregivers providing unpaid support at home. These shifts are reflective of Guam’s unique socio-economic landscape and underline the need for tailored approaches to workforce development.

GDOL has been actively addressing labor force participation through programs aimed at improving job readiness, providing training in high-demand industries, and supporting individuals re-entering the workforce. Initiatives such as the Registered Apprenticeship, Year-Round In-School Youth Program, and the Dislocated Worker Program opportunities are designed to provide pathways into stable employment while addressing barriers that prevent active workforce participation.

“I understand the challenges employers face in finding skilled workers, and we’re actively collaborating with other agencies and partners to address these issues,” said David Dell’Isola, GDOL Director. “While some individuals may not be ready to re-enter the workforce, our focus is on those eager to work—students seeking employment, individuals ready for training programs or boot camps, and others on the fringes of the labor market. By providing opportunities for upskilling and training, such as through the Guam Registered Apprenticeship Program, we’re helping motivated individuals build the abilities they need to succeed while supporting employers in meeting their workforce demands.”

“Unemployment on Guam has trended lower as employment increases with continuing economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic years combined with increased construction activity,” said Chief Economist Gary Hiles. “While low unemployment presents a more challenging situation for employers, the increased availability of jobs provides opportunity to those entering the labor force for the first time and those returning to work.  Population statistics from the 2020 Census counted 11,782 people in the 15-19 year-old category, so about 2,000 people each year should become of age to enter the Labor force. Graduates from the Department of Education numbered 1,527 for School Year 23-24. The Guam Community College class of 2024 had 361 students receiving various certifications, and the University of Guam conferred a total of 528 undergraduate and graduate degrees.”

The full Unemployment Situation Report and Current Employment Report can be viewed at bls.guam.gov. For more information, contact GDOL at 671-475-7044.

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