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This publication reports the development of the vocational-technical resource consortia in Ohio and identifies the operational procedures associated with successful programs. Five exemplary consortia were studied in some depth; however, data were obtained from all of the 23 consortia in the state. The research indicates that the consortium is an excellent method for coordinating local and state vocational education resources with community organizations, such as the Chamber of Commerce and state agencies including the Ohio Department of Development. This coordination assists new and expanding business and industry in solving their training problems. Operational procedures have been recommended concerning organization and administration; marketing and communication strategies; and proposal development training, approval, and management. (KC)

The development, organization, and operation of the Vocational-Technical Resource Consortia in Ohio was examined to identify those elements, policies, practices, and procedures that contribute to their effective operation and future growth. Data about individual consortia and general information were gathered by questionnaires completed by consortium members, case studies, interviews with state leaders, and a literature review. The most successful operating procedures were classified according to (1) organization and administration, (2) marketing and communicating strategies, (3) training proposal development, and (4) training proposal approval and management. Specific procedures included funding and support from the governor, state legislature, and Department of Economic and Community Development; representation of non-educational organizations in the membership; Chamber of Commerce and local economic development agency involvement; business and industry contacts through face-to-face, on-site meetings; informing business and industry about training resources available through local educational institutions; informing educators about new and emerging occupations, labor market trends, and training needs; publicizing services and activities through brochures, the media, and presentations; development of a standard format and criteria for training proposal development; state support of approved training projects; and successful implementation of a variety of programs. (Appendixes include the questionnaire and information and materials on consortia and their activities.) (YLB)