Connecticut’s unemployment rate was 6% in November, the highest of the New England states and sixth highest in the country. The U.S. unemployment rate is 3.9%.

“We must address workforce challenges that have simmered for years,” DiPentima told an audience of 250 business leaders.

“As we enter the third year of the pandemic, the policy choices made over the next few months will determine the strength and viability of our economic recovery,” he added.

“We’re with you on that [workforce development],” Lamont said. “We’ve got $100 million into job training programs. We’ve got to make sure we continue to have the best workforce in the world.

“And to each and every one of you, I want to make sure you know you have workers available through the apprenticeship program, through our certificate programs, so you know that your job needs can be filled not just this year, but for the foreseeable future.”

Connecticut’s unemployment rate was 6% in November, the highest of the New England states and sixth highest in the country. The U.S. unemployment rate is 3.9%.

“We must address workforce challenges that have simmered for years,” DiPentima told an audience of 250 business leaders.

“As we enter the third year of the pandemic, the policy choices made over the next few months will determine the strength and viability of our economic recovery,” he added.