The major purpose of this study was to identify common professional education competencies essential to adequate performance by administrators of vocational education at the community college level. Data were collected by means of a 98-item questionnaire which was designed so that deans and department chairmen could respond to the level of proficiency necessary for each competancy in relation to their job and indicate the best methods (coursework, on-the-job training, or a combination of the two) for preparing leadership personnel to perform specific competencies. Usable returns from 143 of the 175 deans and department chairmen in 48 community colleges from four western states were analyzed by analysis of variance and factor analytic techniques and revealed these major findings: (1) Five clusters of competencies were identified and represent meaningful groups that can form the bases for developing curriculum to prepare administrators, and (2) A combination of formal course work and on-the-job training experience was the preferred method of administrator preparation. It was recommended that behavioral objectives and individualized instructional packages be developed from the competencies identified in the study. (SB)