HOUSTON – The nation's unemployment rate is at its highest level in 16 years. It jumped to 7.2 in December and 2.6 million jobs were lost in 2008. This is the most jobs lost since 1945. 

At Workforce Solution, an unemployment agency in Houston, Albert Robertson is one of those millions of people looking for a job.  He used to install laptop screens, but now is out of work.

"It's hard. It's really hard.  I get disappointed at times and a little stressed out. But, you know, I just have to just pray and keep going," said Albert Robertson.

According to labor market analyst Joel Wagher, the job market will continue to be tough in 2009.

"As jobs are lost nationally, people will no longer need our goods or services. Instead, we'll start to see our job growth slow down in the Houston area," said Wagher.

December unemployment figures for the Houston area will be released next week, and while some job losses are expected, they won't include the recent layoffs at major employers, such as Dow Chemical.

"This is just the beginning.  We will probably see larger numbers this year," said Wagher.

President-elect Barack Obama suggests that the country has an open and honest discussion about the recovery plan. But despite the prospects of Obama's proposed multi-billion dollar economic stimulus plan, the unemployment rate is expected to climb even higher when those graduating from college and high school this spring enter the job market.