Introduces this special issue on the Bureau of Labor Statistics' new projections of the occupational, industrial, and demographic structure of the labor force, which present a detailed look at the U.S. economy in 2006. (JOW)

The number of secretaries has declined one-fifth over the past decade. Those who remain often perform middle-management duties. One possibility for change is to recast the occupation as apprenticeship: a two-year stint similar to that of a law clerk. (SK)

Discusses the unemployment rate and earnings of Hispanics during the 1980s. (JOW)

Data from the Displaced Worker Survey show that more-educated workers fare better in the job market following displacement. Among otherwise comparable workers, displaced workers who have more schooling spend significantly less time finding a new job and are more likely to return to full-time employment. (Author/JOW)

Examines the employment and retirement trends of older workers over the past 25 years in the context of the goals set forth in the Older Americans Act. (Author)

Describes telecommuting, which occurs whenever an employee is paid for work done at an alternate worksite and total commuting time is thereby reduced. Discusses the pros and cons and examines the characteristics that make jobs and people suitable for telecommuting. Includes a self-assessment to determine whether telecommuting is a good option.…

Compares the William H. Whyte's Organization Man of 1956 with today's employees. Finds that today there are no implicit contracts, no common lot, no loyalty, and no harmony of interests. (JOW)

Because of advances in computer and communications technologies, once distinct information-based industries are converging with broadcasting and telecommunications, creating new jobs and eliminating old ones. The International Labor Organization has begun to tackle the social and labor issues expected in a virtual world. (Author/JOW)

Looks at how the Bureau of Labor Statistics determines the numbers and projections for the Occupational Outlook Handbook. (JOW)

Earnings differences are relatively small between women and men in narrowly defined jobs; however, relatively few women fill the higher levels of these jobs. (Author/JOW)

Over the last three years, large numbers of workers have been losing their jobs and experiencing involuntary unemployment for extended periods of time, as much as two years or more. This is a situation that creates a tremendous challenge for career counselors. This paper begins by providing an historical, economic context for the discussion and…

Industrial robots are now used only on a limited basis, but by the 1990s, they will be sophisticated enough to play a significant role in mechanical assembly processes and construction projects. Increased industrial robotization will affect employment, national productivity, and lifestyles. (AM)

The standard definition of unemployment results in a severe underestimation of Native Americans. Availability of local employment opportunities determines whether they actively look for work. Also, significant numbers choose to work intermittently. It is, therefore, difficult to measure Native American labor force participation. (JOW)

Few nursing administrators recognize what type of turnover is occurring, how much, and where. Availability of this information is essential to the control and reduction of turnover. (JOW)

Although labor market indicators paint a dismal picture of the status of African-American workers, they underestimate the extent to which they have been affected by recent trends. Official estimates do not include those not actively seeking work or those frustrated by the job market. (JOW)