Selected state and local experiments in developing/supporting workplace-centered training programs were analyzed to identify issues relevant to developing a national policy for workplace training. Intensive case studies of state economic development/training programs in California and Illinois and the employment and training programs provided by North and South Carolina's community college systems were conducted, and various joint training efforts involving unions, employers, local governments, and community organizations were reviewed. It was concluded that the federal government should fund a national training effort aimed at enhancing the skills of incumbent workers, states should be responsible for choosing the most effective means of administering federal training programs, and national training policy should focus on underserved groups and programs contributing to the establishment of strong employment and training systems. The importance of developing/implementing youth apprenticeship or school-to-work transition programs was emphasized. It was recommended that funding for a national training policy come from either general revenue or a dedicated payroll tax. The start-up funding required for a national training policy was estimated at $375 million, with subsequent funding levels of $2 billion annually thereafter. (Appended is a table summarizing 10 studies of the effects of skills/training on economic performance. Contains 49 references.) (MN)