The expected expansion of Manpower Training and Placement Programs, particularly of the work incentive type, could have a significant impact on wage ratings and hiring standards in the low-wage sector of the economy. To answer this question an extensive three-phase project was formulated. This study (the first phase) was designed to ascertain if sufficient data were available to conduct the research. Data collected from a convenience sample of WIN and CEP Programs in N.J., N.Y., and Pa., and establishments who employed WIN and CEP Terminees indicated the contemplated research design could not be satisfactorily executed in its present form. Although this study was not designed to develop findings, the collected data pointed so definitely in a particular direction a number of tentative findings were made. The highly dispersed character of WIN and CEP placements and the insignificant number of these terminees relative to the size of the respective employer work forces indicate that Manpower Training and Placement Programs probably have had no impact on wages paid in low-wage occupations and industries. Nor is it likely that an expanded program, e.g. FAP, would significantly affect wage rates in the low wage sector. At the same time these Programs have encouraged employers to institute more realistic hiring requirements for less-skilled jobs. (NTIS)