West Virginia Chamber of Commerce raises concerns over continued job losses
August 18, 2025
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WV News) — The West Virginia Chamber of Commerce is raising concerns after a new report from WorkForce West Virginia showed the state’s labor force and employment continued to decline year-over-year in July 2025.
According to the report, the civilian workforce in West Virginia shrank by 7,600 people, from 787,600 in July 2024 to 780,000 in July 2025. Total employment also fell by 4,400 jobs during that period, from 755,300 to 750,900.
While the private sector saw a modest increase in employment from 565,900 to 567,500, key industries experienced job losses. Mining employment dropped from 21,300 to 20,700, and manufacturing dipped from 45,600 to 45,400. The hospitality industry saw a decline from 71,400 to 68,700, and retail employment decreased from 78,400 to 77,800.
“These numbers are troubling,” said Steve Roberts, president of the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce.
“We’re seeing consistent signs of economic softening across several core industries. When the workforce is shrinking and job losses are sustained over time, we must treat it as a warning sign, and we must respond with urgency.”
The Chamber noted this is the 14th consecutive month of employment decline in the state.
“West Virginia is not keeping pace with the region or the nation,” Roberts said. “This should concern every leader in our state. The good news is that we believe there are real solutions if we act decisively and work together.”
Story from WVNews