This 1996 national survey tracked state efforts to create comprehensive career development and training systems for practitioners working in early care and education settings. Mail surveys were sent to 250 key informants and leaders nationwide. Part 1, "Introduction," states the goals of the study. Part 2, "Waves of Change," depicts some milestones that have had an impact on the career development movement, including research findings relating program quality to practitioner qualifications and the establishment of programs devoted to professional development. Part 3, "Vision of a Comprehensive Career Development System," provides a rationale for creating this system and describes 15 principles to guide its development. Part 4, "Summary of the Status of Career Development Initiatives in the States," comprises the bulk of the report and summarizes the status of career development initiatives in the states, including the types of planning and implementation initiatives underway, funding sources, leadership and committee structure, stakeholders, and major accomplishments in the past year. Part 5, "Issues, Barriers, and Challenges the States Are Currently Tackling," considers changes in state and federal governmental policies, funding, and child care licensing. Part 6, "Highlights of State Career Development Initiatives," describes career development initiatives in 14 states. Part 7, "Conclusion," points to the progress made in career development initiatives and cautions that the future will require careful planning, flexibility, and new funding strategies to ensure further progress. The Appendix contains tables and charts detailing findings listed by state. (Contains 10 references.) (KDFB)