Reading Between the Lines of the Latest Jobs Report (Samuel Shows Investors Around Places Like Escanaba)

 

(Illustrative Only)

Samuel knows that companies
want to invest in beautiful 
little towns like this
that have a sense of community and
opportunities for start-ups
and expansion. He thinks
Escanaba would be a great
place for them. 

If he can attract a company
or two he can improve
wages, improve exports,
and improve a forming cluster.

Multinational Firms and Delta
County

We want strong job growth and enough wage pressure for people to enjoy a better quality of life. The latest jobs report, especially after the downward revision, is a bit disappointing. Ideally, we’d see more growth in manufacturing and other high-value industries.

Right now, a lot of workers seem to be staying put. They’re not being hired or fired, which means there isn’t much movement. That lack of churn can signal deeper issues because healthy job markets usually have some natural flow as industries shift.

Industries that create real value — especially those producing exportable goods — need new employees to grow. While gains in services and healthcare help, they’re not necessarily the kind of expansion that drives long-term economic strength.

Only time will tell what this revision really means. This year’s numbers look okay so far, but we’ll have to wait and see. 

BLS January 2026 Employment Situation

• The U.S. added 130,000 jobs in January.

• Unemployment rate stayed at 4.3 percent.

• Biggest job gains were in health care, social assistance, and construction.

• Job losses occurred in the federal government and financial activities.

• Wages rose 0.4 percent for the month.

• The average workweek increased slightly.

• Previous months’ job numbers were revised downward.