A labor market study of implications of rapid energy development in the West examined the dimensions of work force movement from secondary occupations to primary energy occupations in areas affected by "boom town" growth. (Secondary occupations were defined as those in all industries not categorized as primary energy industries.) Focus was on the magnitude of transference from secondary to primary industries, types of secondary occupations and skills most likely to transfer, degree to which secondary workers make occupational changes when changing industries, and types of secondary occupations which are constantly and critically in short supply as a result of primary energy development. The analysis was based on existing data sources and research previously conducted in "boom town" areas. Selected findings include the following: High turnover rates were experienced in both primary and secondary sectors. New entrants into the labor force played a major role in job growth (4% of energy workers, 20% of secondary sector workers). Job switching from secondary to primary sector was common and usually involved upward occupational shifts. Shortages occurred in secondary occupations as over half the energy sector jobs came from transference from the secondary sector. (Shortage occupations are listed by Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT) codes. Implications for training resource allocation and career guidance activities are suggested.) (JT)