Developed from a review of research, policies, exemplary practices, and leading thinking, this guide addresses educational program design questions. The document is divided into two parts, Part One contains the recommended design features of career and technical education, including these 12 operational design features: learning context; audience; signature; expectations; processes; organization; partnerships; staff; environment; measures and indicators; celebrations; and financing. Part Two describes the design process for improving career and technical education. These fifteen steps are described: determine purpose and scope; determine the process; select committees; select a facilitator and obtain technical assistance; plan communications; hold the first meeting; conduct interviews, surveys and site visits; review recommendations; select and/or adapt design features; assess programs for gaps; prioritize gaps for action; develop a plan to close the gaps; submit the plan; disband the design group; and monitor the implementation of the plan. Appendix I contains the process document for developing the presented recommendations. Appendix II lists the design group members. Appendix III describes the process for developing professional judgment ratings. Appendix IV contains the tables of recommended operational design features in terms of progressiveness and extent of current application, relevance to education levels, and uniqueness. (SLR)