PIERRE, S.D. (WNAX) – There have been numerous programs over the past few years, both public and private, aimed at increasing the number of available workers.

Dave Owen, President of the South Dakota Chamber of Commerce and Industry, says it is a long-term problem.

Owen says there are a number of contributing factors to the shortage of workers.

Owen says employers are looking at a number of options.

There are about 16,000 jobs currently listed with the state Department of Labor.