Current employment date for Kosciusko County provides “a positive look at our economy” and “it reflects our efforts to enhance and assist our existing businesses in expansion,” said George Robertson, president of Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation.

Robertson said monthly unemployment/employment data is based on a sample survey and estimates. “It is known for inaccuracy. The most accurate report of employment and labor data is the annual Indiana Employers report, which is based on the actual filings of employers as to employment and wages,” he said.

The recently released Indiana 2012 Employer Wage Data Survey shows that Kosciusko County’s total employment last year was 34,883. The average weekly earnings for all industries was $837 and for manufacturing was $1,160. Those weekly wages exceed the region’s average by as much as $220.

“It also shows that our employment in 2012 increased by 570 people, representing $24.5 million of increased income in the county,” said Robertson.

Kosciusko County’s total payrolls exceed $1.5 billion, of which 56 percent – or $858.7 million – comes from manufacturing.