This report summarizes the findings of a New York State task force that studied the public work force of the state with a focus on preparing these workers for the future. Discussion of the task force was organized along four major topics of concern: recruiting, retention, and compensation; management style; education, training, and retraining; and organizational structure/productivity. The summary report is presented in four sections. Part One describes the forces of change now impinging on the public sector in the state, such as a labor shortage, more women and minority groups in the labor force, changing family structures, high dropout rates, lack of basic skills, the introduction of new technology, and changes on the internal scene. Part Two describes the impact of change, translating that impact into key issues for state government as an employer, for managers within government, and for government employees. Part Three discusses formulating a policy response to change, setting forth 10 guiding principles for the future. Part Four suggests implementation steps. A summary of the guiding principles and 55 supporting recommendations are included. (KC)