The workforce in the oil industry in Alaska has peaked, it has been revealed.

According to a recent publication from the Alaskan Department of Labour and Workforce Development entitled Alaska Economic Trends, last January saw oil industry employment go above 12,000, which is a record for Alaska.

The majority of jobs are in the Anchorage, North Slope and the Kenai Peninsula boroughs, which could interest those training for a career in the industry.

It was also noted by the monthly publication that oil and gas production in the state accounts for 29 per cent of its gross state product.

The growth in employment from 2000 to 2007 was the second highest in Alaska at 34 per cent, one place behind the health care sector, which saw a growth of 44 per cent.

However, direct employment in the sector accounts for four per cent of the total employment in the state.

Government employees were the most predominant force in the area, accounting for 26 per cent of the overall workforce.

Sarah Palin, John McCain's running mate for the presidency of the US, is the governor of Alaska.

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