Every month, a new unemployment rate lands, gets a headline, and gets treated like a verdict on the regional economy. For the boards, CEOs, and hiring leaders SkyWater Search Partners works with across Minnesota and the Upper Midwest, that single number is usually the least useful part of the report. Here is what the data actually shows right now, what it is probably hiding, and what it means if you are building a leadership team in this region in the second half of 2026.

Please join us in congratulating Adriana Fontaine, Executive Operations Associate, on being named SkyWater Search Partners Employee of the Quarter.

The March 2026 U.S. jobs report delivered a stronger-than-expected rebound after a weak February, while Minnesota’s latest unemployment data shows a rare uptick in joblessness. But for Minnesota employers, the real story isn’t in the headlines. It’s in the context.

The loss of 92,000 jobs nationwide is significant. But it increases the chance of further rate cuts.

The February 2026 jobs report delivered a surprise, with the U.S. economy losing roughly 92,000 jobs, a sharp reversal from January’s modest gains (Washington Post, 2026).

Black History Month is a time to recognize the contributions, leadership, and resilience of Black Americans whose work has shaped our economy, our communities, and the way organizations lead today. We believe this reflection is especially relevant in the recruiting and executive search industry, where leadership decisions shape culture, innovation, and long-term impact.

In recent years, the job market has witnessed a clear shift: many employers are placing less weight on formal degrees and more on what a candidate can do. Skills-based hiring,  prioritizing competencies, experience, and demonstrated ability over educational credentials, is becoming a leading trend in recruitment. According to NACE’s Job Outlook 2025 Spring Update, almost two-thirds of employers surveyed reported using skills-based hiring to help identify candidates with potential.  Below, we explore why this is happening, what the data shows, and what organizations and job seekers should be thinking about as the change accelerates.

When leadership transitions occur without planning, organizations often struggle with disruption, turnover, and loss of institutional knowledge. In today’s environment, succession planning should rank among the top priorities for executive and HR leaders.

Insights from SkyWater on job growth, economic uncertainty, and hiring trends in the Upper Midwest.