Canadian society is undergoing a significant transformation, largely in response to the forces of globalization and the development of the knowledge/information economy. The key to the economic and social well being of Canada's diverse communities lies in the knowledge-and-skills base of its citizens. Canada must design policies and programs which give Canadians entry to this skills-based economy and then help them remain active participants. To this end, further investments in human resource capacity must be the critical priority of Canada's social and economic policy. Not investing in the skills and training needs of all Canadians will eventually fail to produce a workforce with the skills and knowledge fundamental to a progressive 21st century economy. Rooted in over 900 communities--urban, rural, Aboriginal, immigrant and disadvantaged communities--Canadian colleges and institutes represent a master key able to open the door to skills development in all regions of Canada. It is concluded that the issues requiring translation to a strategic and results-oriented Workforce Skills Development Strategy should comprise of accessibility, affordability, and national funding mechanisms. This report is divided into the following sections: (1) Skills Updating & Workplace Training; (2) Commercialization of Research & Technology Transfer; (3) Immigrant Settlement & Labour Market Integration; (4) Aboriginal Education; and (5) Colleges and Institutes: A Master Key.