BEND, OR -- As Central Oregon jobless rates remain at or near record lows, local businesses continue to struggle to find qualified workers. But a new video campaign aims to help. In July, Deschutes County's unemployment rate was again below 4%, dropping .1% from June, to 3.8%; Jefferson County's rate fell .2% to 4.8%, and Crook County's jobless rate held steady at 5.4%.
In response, Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO) is launching two videos highlighting the benefits of living and working in the High Desert, to help employers attract new talent. In "Central Oregon is Hiring," EDCO describes the job market in their best Dr. Seuss, "Oh, the places you will work, with more time in your day; Central Oregon is hiring, so get on your way. With so many doors open, there's plenty to choose, As you're seeking new purpose in daily to-dos." There's also "Reboot in Bend," focused on high-tech job opportunities.