The author states that the task of overcoming skill shortages, retooling the workforce and training new workers will be difficult and expensive, but it must be done, and done quickly. A chart listing projected demands for skilled workers by 1987 is included. (CT)

Vocational education is a must if the United States wishes to compete with the Europeans and Japanese. It cannot be relegated to secondary status in schools. The federal government must play a major role in seeing to a balanced approach to the economic and social goals of vocational education. (CT)