Despite the downturn in the economy some officials in our region say jobs are still available. 

In December 2012, statistics show there were more than 516,000 unemployed people in Pennsylvania. 

"It's really more about what do we need to do to connect the opportunities that are available to those that are looking for employment," said North Central Regional Planning and Development Commission executive director, Eric Bridges. 

In December 2012, unemployment numbers went up in the northern tier. 

In Clearfield County numbers rose to 9.6 percent, 8.7 percent in Jefferson County and 7.2 percent in Elk County. 

Bridges said that both the manufacturing and healthcare fields are still hiring. 

"We're currently looking for engineering, technical writers and CAD operators," said Michael White of Brookville Equipment. 

From 2011 to 2012 Brookville Equipment hired more than 120 employees. 

White said they've had job openings for a while, but people are not applying. 

Bridges offers a piece of advice for those looking for jobs. 

"There's been some small scale upticks in retail and commercial. Manufacturing is holding its own. But the healthcare and the tourism industry are the two right now that are seeing the most significant growth," he said.