Findings on Employer/Vocational Education Survey.

A nationwide survey of private sector employers elicited information on the level of business interest in various vocational educational services and programs. It also provided insight into how business can and does contribute to vocational education. Nearly all employers (94 percent of the 262 who returned questionnaires) indicated some interest in at least one of the vocational education services listed on the questionnaire. Activities perceived to be of greatest value were offering skill training for a specific occupational area, recruiting qualified permanent personnel, providing vocational training for employees, and training to improve managers' supervisory techniques. Nearly 9 of every 10 employers indicated a willingness to contribute by using company resources to support vocational education. Respondents would consider participating in local review committees, plant tours, work/study or cooperative education programs, and loaning of executives or instructors. Two-thirds of the respondents recruited employees from the vocational education system. Those who did not recruit cited these reasons: lack of hiring by company, insufficient training of graduates, and a ready supply of experienced workers. Over half of the respondents (58 percent) had a training arrangement with vocational education institutions. Most commonly, employers used vocational education for occupationally specific or technical training. (The questionnaire is appended.) (YLB)