A survey of the New York Department of Correctional Services Vocational Education Program was conducted in 53 correctional facilities throughout the state, with a questionnaire measuring perceptions of staff and inmates about the effectiveness of the program in the areas of work skills, technical skills, and student personal attributes relating to employability. Respondents included 430 educational supervisors and instructors as well as 389 randomly sampled inmates who were within 6 months of their release dates. The findings revealed that both inmates and staff thought that the program was useful in improving interpersonal skills as well as employment skills. They also generally agreed that the program was helpful in effectively preparing inmates for employment after release from prison. A significant proportion of both groups stated that more hands-on work and in-house projects were needed to better prepare inmates for employment. Respondents also noted the need to keep equipment and materials updated and the need for computer training. Instructors stated that more programming involving job-seeking skills as well as increased academics were needed. They also saw a need for better screening and placement procedures for inmates. The study concluded that the program should continue to be strengthened in the areas of computer repair, software, and computer literacy and that the employment success of former inmates who participated in the program should be studied. (KC)