Self‐selection and Occupational Mobility

Using three cross‐sectional data sets, the determinants of occupational upgrading over time for mobile workers in the United States are analysed. The model controls for the self‐selection of mobile workers over the course of the business cycle. The results indicate a trend towards greater sexual and racial equality in the outcomes of occupational changes. However, it is suggested that the more able workers have an advantage during periods of economic recession.