Three major goals of vocational education are presented: a) meeting the manpower needs of society, b) increasing options available to each individual, and c) lending intelligibility to general education. Educational background and economic characteristics of professionals in the field are detailed as are legislative histories of the Manpower Development and Training Act and various other federal programs. Various programs for personnel development, certification of teachers, and resource planning are also mentioned. A summary and specific recommendations for federal funding and administration of programs conclude the report. (JB)