Community colleges represent the ideal location for building the high skilled workforce needed in a "high tech" society since they are community-based and responsive to local needs. In ensuring a well-prepared workforce, it is important that the link between elementary and secondary systems and community colleges be strengthened and expanded. Through the Illinois Community College System's (ICCS's) school-to-work initiative, colleges and secondary systems are working in partnership to provide successful transitions for students through technical, honors, and telecommunication programs. Currently, the ICCS serves nearly one million students annually, representing a wide variety of student goals. To respond to these goals, the ICCS offers associate degree transfer programs, occupational degree and certificate programs, apprenticeship and work-based learning programs, bridge programs to prepare high school students with varying skill levels for college-level programs, youth-centered programs, and adult education. As part of its commitment to provide community services, the ICCS has developed a statewide telecommunications network designed to enhance educational opportunities for the community. It also provides business and industry training and retraining, career centers, small business development centers, technology centers, and manufacturing outreach centers. Finally, the school-to-work initiative places a tremendous emphasis on partnerships with business and industry, providing technical assistance for work-based learning components and updating information on employment and new technology. (Flow charts of the ICCS school-to-work initiative are appended.) (TGI)