Bureau of Labor Statistic
Ray Walker would love to work as a Commercial Project Manager for a top construction organization. After all, that is why he studied Constructional Management at Arizona State University, Ira A. Fulton School of Engineering. Although Ray was on the 2006 Dean’s list, he now joins millions of young frustrated college graduates who simply cannot get jobs.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2010 unemployment rate for bachelor degree students increased to 5.1%, the highest since the 1970’s. In Arizona, where Ray resides, the unemployment rate is a staggering 9.4%. This seems high but what is so disturbing is this number fails to account for the graduates, like himself, that have given up looking for full time work or those who were laid off and their unemployment compensation has since ran out.
Annie Boozer, Program Director for Arizona State Department of Transportation, AZ-Local Technical Assistant Program (LTAP), is very much aware of Ray’s frustration with finding work. Annie recently posted a job opening for her department and within five days received 62 applicants. “There were more individuals laid off in Arizona in the month of August than we’ve had in nine months” stated Annie. “It’s a hiring authorities market, we have our choice on anyone”.
Much like Ray, Annie interviews many overqualified individuals for the LTAP positions, however, with state department jobs there is covered vs. uncovered policies that dictate the salary range for their positions.
Listen to Ray Walker a Stranded College Graduate
Listen to Annie Boozer Explain the Hiring Process
Do you think that the Obama Administration American Jobs Act will put Americans like Ray to work rebuilding roads, railways, bridges, and schools in need of repair?
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My name is ShaRae Kalian and I am an education and leadership advocate. I strive to bring about extreme personal humility with intense personal will to help others to succeed. I believe that the passion we have within us is the fuel that drives us and it’s the burning desire that says, “Let’s march! Let’s go after what we want.” It shows in my publications and leadership trainings. I believe that each one of us has a passion that is self-generated and a contagious tool!
