A comprehensive life-cycle framework is offered for examining demographic changes and the world of work. This document establishes connections among the social and economic issues that relate to demographic change and priorities. The document also identifies the changes taking place in the work force, the problems of poor basic education and work readiness, the need to expand the pool of available workers, and the challenges these issues pose for U.S. global competitiveness. Eight chapters detail a two-pronged approach: first, to make the existing work force more productive and flexible, and second, to augment the size of that work force by creating opportunities for underused groups of potential workers. The eight chapters are as follows: (1) introduction and summary; (2) demographic trends; (3) investing in children and youth; (4) the education-work connection; (5) making the current work force more productive; (6) enlarging the labor force; (7) the role of immigration in meeting the work force needs; and (8) the labor force potential of older workers. An appendix highlights cost effects and benefits for children of eight existing programs. (NLA)