The mission of the National Council on Vocational Education (NCVE), a presidential advisory council consisting of representatives of business, industry, and education, is to ensure the development of a first-class American work force. As part of this mission, the NCVE held a series of meetings with representatives of various industries to solicit their help in determining: (1) what competencies are required for entry-level workers; and (2) what educational requirements are needed to train the work force. A common theme emerged: the most desirable and successful employees were those having a positive attitude toward work--a strong work ethic. Positive self-esteem fosters a positive work ethic. Individual levels of self-esteem fluctuate, depending on one's familiarity, comfort, and training. NCVE's Working Committee studied the role of parents, educators, and employers and made recommendations on how they might have a more positive impact on young workers. They also examined ways that students can help themselves. The committee recommended that parents and educators find ways to reduce failure among children in their care. The family provides the base for caring and nurturing and is the place where personal values and social responsibility are internalized. A comprehensive plan must integrate the resources of family, school, workplace, and community to encourage the highest skill, quality, and productivity in the workplace. (Sections for parents, educators, students, and employers contain summary steps to follow for attaining a strong work ethic. Members of NCVE, the Work Ethic/Self-Esteem Committee members, and 57 references are included.) (NLA)