To improve the competencies of professional vocational education personnel responsible for public information programs, 26 participants from 16 states attended a 14-day training institute. Institute objectives were achieved through a variety of activities and presentations by resource speakers, laboratory assignments, case studies, field trips, field work with local agencies, group discussions, and the development of individual plans for action. Each participant completed assignments in layout, reporting, and developing and designing an implementation plan for a public information program at a local educational agency. A total of 24 presentations were made during the institute dealing with public information, the challenges facing the information officer, and the tasks assigned to institute participants. Evaluation was accomplished through a series of questionnaires administered at the beginning, conclusion, and after several months to measure confidence level and to determine application of skills and knowledge. The institute was rated as excellent, and the followup revealed that many participants found their plan helpful in applying the knowledge and skills to their job. A number of institute materials are appended. (SB)