To compete globally in the 21st century, it is important to introduce more young people to industrial technology and improve technology-related education. All citizens must understand and know how to use technology (Burris, 1998). Knowledge, expertise, and economics will determine their future success in the world's markets. This article describes Tech Upward Bound, a program that the author proposes to help young people start learning the competitive skills and knowledge they will need for life in the 21st century. Such a program could help middle school and high school students choose technical career paths, increase their likelihood of going on for postsecondary education, and foster their interest in technology in general. It also discusses how the Tech Upward Bound concept can meet the needs of the students and the vision needed to make this program a reality. (Contains 1 figure.)