This study reviews the relationship that has been established in the steel industry between the Canadian Steel Trade and Employment Congress (CSTEC) and education/training institutions called upon to provide steelworker job training and development programs. It describes the forces that brought the parties together and the difficulties in forming and maintaining this relationship. Finally, it outlines the lessons learned and highlights the important role government plays in supporting these partnerships. The paper opens with a brief introduction of the historical context that fostered collaboration between CSTEC and colleges. It then offers a discussion of the three human resource challenges (worker adjustment, skill training, and entry-level programs) that served as the foundation for the partnership. The authors conclude the paper with a presentation of the six key insights that emerged during the study, three of which are: (1) it is important that all parties are addressing a common goal or challenge; (2) it is important to recognize that, while the goal or challenge is common, the needs of each of the parties will invariably be different; and (3) governments need to play a critical role in both the initiation and sustainability of these partnerships between industry and education/training institutions. (RC)