In a recent survey, most managers and blue-collar workers indicated that the availability of job modifications would alter their retirement plans. Such an alternative can alleviate some job-related problems of older workers and permit an organization to capitalize fully upon these employees' skills. (SK)

Describes the career development program at Lockheed Marine in Seattle. Considerations discussed include the presence of unions in blue-collar companies, the well-established career paths that exist in the skilled trades, and affirmative action goals. (JOW)

Argues that much of contemporary Black family crisis is dysfunctional consequence of technological revolution since World War II. Notes that transition from industrial society to information society brought sharp decline in stable Black, blue-collar working class. Explores three levels of technological development: domestic technology in home,…

Despite the small numbers being hired, many women trying to increase their income or get off of welfare believe that the skilled trades are the answer. Construction Readiness Education for Women is a training program funded by the Missouri Women's Council that is designed to attract women into the trades. (JOW)

Discusses a research project exploring the thought it takes to do physical work, the cognitive processes involved in various blue collar and service occupations like waitressing, hairstyling, plumbing, welding, industrial assembly, and the like. Considers the way occupations are categorized, defines intelligence, and thinks about learning and…

A training approach developed by Management Technology Strategies makes blue-collar employees responsible for their own learning. The adaptable system follows three phases: (1) data and design; (2) documentation; and (3) training. The organization provides trainers, tools, and resources, but employees must be proactively involved in using them.…

Discusses the barrier between white-collar and blue-collar workers and the problems that arise when one makes a move from one to the other. Suggests that often a mentor is what prompts people to move from blue- to white-collar positions. (JOW)

Discusses the dichotomy between new wealthy and not-so-wealthy people. Points out that the distance between the top and bottom tiers of income distribution has grown significantly since the 1970s. Looks at the reasons for the increase and what can be done about it. (JOW)

Lists factors, such as money, job prospects, confidence, accessibility and social factors, which may inhibit working class demand for higher education and offers some possible solutions. (JOW)

Millions of United States' workers are unemployed, many of them dislocated from their jobs and careers by extended layoffs, drastic manpower reductions, and plant closings. Describes a model of the emotional roller coaster ride taken by employees displaced by a plant closing and suggests approaches to helping them and their families. (Author/ABB)

The authors argue that management can make meaningful decisions about supervisory selection, training, and development only after classifying supervisors and comparing their activities. (Author/SSH)

Women workers are establishing an identity for themselves in the traditionally male-dominated work world of mechanics, carpenters, construction workers, technicians, and engineers, drawn by incentives ranging from higher pay to training and advancement opportunities. Of the over 12.5 million women employed in industrial and service occupations,…

Technology in the workplace can raise productivity, but often the cost is deskilled jobs or unemployment for both blue- and white-collar workers. Vocational education must adjust curriculum, instruction, and research to understand how work is changing and how best to prepare workers. (SK)

According to Department of Labor statistics, there is little relationship between workers' educational attainment and job success. The group with the highest remuneration (White males) uses the least amount of specialized training. The group with the lowest economic remuneration uses the highest amount. (Author/WI)

Consists of an interview with Pete Haralovich, owner of a repair shop for foreign cars, who has worked at a variety of occupations. Highlights the need for a vocational emphasis in education. (CH)