Maryland beat the odds when it came to technology-related jobs in 2009. The state saw growth in the computer systems design and related services adding 5,3000 jobs in 2009 as well as the management, scientific and technical consulting, where 4,500 jobs were added, subsectors and in fact, led the nation in both.
The 8.7 percent growth in computer systems design and related services and a 13.8% increase in management, scientific and technical consulting meant
Maryland accounted for almost half of the jobs added nationally
in those areas.
Overall, while 2009 saw every state lose jobs, Maryland retained jobs at a rate better than all but five states. The state lost 41,000 nonfarm payroll jobs at a 1.7 percent rate during the year, compared to the national rate which saw nationwide jobs lost at a 3.0% rate, almost twice as fast.
Industrial sectors leading the state's job creation included health care, federal government and educational services. The health care and social assistance industry added 5,800 jobs for 1.8 percent growth. The fed added 4,100 jobs for 3.2 percent growth and private educational services added 3,600 jobs for 4.9 percent growth.
Without 31,500 job losses in construction and 10,800 jobs losses in financial activities, Maryland would have gained jobs. Construction lost jobs at an 18.5 percent rate and financial activities lost jobs at a 7.3 percent rate.
Source: Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development
Writer: Walaika Haskins