Drawing from research conducted in 1990-91, this report examines trends affecting the future work of technicians in Quebec, their pre-employment education, and the link between college and work. Part 1 focuses on aspects of the economic, technological, and social environment that will influence the future role of technicians. Economic concerns include the current status of the Quebec economy, globalization of the world's economy, economic trends toward growth and the domination of commerce and service industries, and emerging motives and values. The technological/technical environment is examined in terms of information technologies, biotechnology, energy management, recycling, innovations in materials engineering, and the diffusion of technological advances. Social issues include the growing gap between rich and poor, the social conscience of the business world, and the development of an information society. Part 2 examines changes in the productive sector, including those related to organizational dynamics and the professional structure of the labor force. Part 3 considers the role of technicians and the competencies expected of them, including creativity, a sense of personal autonomy and responsibility, and the capacity to integrate information, transfer it across disciplines, work as a team member, learn, and adapt. Finally, part 4 looks toward the future, addressing scientific and technological trends, the globalization of human history, the relationship between educational and career changes, and influences on the ethical order. Concluding comments emphasize the cultural, ethical, educational, and socioeconomic questions that should be addressed in conceptualizing the role of technicians in the year 2000. (AC)