The current state of vocational education is one of change and exceptional vitality, tempered by concern. In fiscal year 1983 vocational educators have continued to be concerned with National needs, vocational education has emphasized closer and more effective collaboration with private business and industry, and vocational education's national professional associations and centers of research have focused on keeping current and improving program quality. In the future, vocational education must face up to three categories of "dimensions of change": technological, economic, and demographic. Some areas of concern that need special emphasis by vocational education in the future are partnerships and collaboration; curriculum development; skilled work force development; a closer working relationship with the defense industrial base, active military, and reserve forces; equity and access; governance; dropouts; and educational reform. (Eleven pages within the paper present five tables, one figure, and narrative material on the status of vocational education for the period 1981-83. Topics include appropriations, enrollments, state and local administration of vocational programs, and outlays of Federal funds for such services as vocational instruction under contract, construction of area vocational schools, operation of residential vocational schools, vocational work study, placement, and stipends. Questions and answers are appended.) (YLB)