The new distribution patterns of high technology provide clues for reconsidering vocational education in rural areas. This report examines the founding and development of locally owned, high technology manufacturers in the nonmetropolitan West. A mail survey of all high technology manufacturing firms in 11 contiguous Western states and a follow-up telephone interview identified 82 high-tech firms that had been started since 1976 in nonmetro areas by local entrepreneurs. Sixty-seven of these firms praticipated in the survey. The products of these firms fell into 3 relatively homogeneous groups: electronic components, industrial controls, and instruments; products and equipment related to natural resources; and medical, dental, and health related products. Entrepreneurs had a mean age of 37 at the time of business start-up; 59% had college degrees or more. While 71% of entrepreneurs had lived in the community previously or had other personal ties, 29% chose their business location because it was an attractive place to live. Entrepreneurs preferred towns with populations over 10,000 and counties over 25,000; most selected locations near regional high-tech centers or in areas with abundant amenities. Virtually all entrepreneurs had managerial or technical experience in their previous employment or had previously been owners or partners in a small business. However, the new firms had few supply or market linkages to these "incubator" organizations. Start-up financing came mostly from the founder's personal assets. Over 75% of new firms experienced employment growth since start-up; most employees were full-time and hired locally. This report contains 27 references. (SV)