The Partnership for Academic and Career Education (PACE), established in 1987, is a consortium bringing together the seven school districts of Anderson, Oconee, and Pickins counties in South Carolina (representing 16 high schools and 4 secondary vocational/career centers); local businesses; and Tri-County Technical College (TCTC). Seeking to eliminate gaps and overlaps between secondary and postsecondary programs while providing incentives for students to stay in school and graduate into meaningful employment, the current program design begins in grade 9, emphasizing a strong academic foundation, complemented by occupational coursework. The program emphasizes employment opportunities in the mid-level technologies, requiring vocational training up to and including an associate degree. For students in grades 9-12, specific academic and occupational courses are developed around four cluster areas: industrial/engineering technologies; business technologies; health technologies; and public service technologies. Five of the seven districts have replaced General Education with an enrollment in either Tech Prep or College Prep course sequences. A study conducted by TCTC in 1991 has shown increased enrollments and applications for admission as a result of the program. In addition, there has been a growing interest in plant tours of local business, as well as campus tours. Additional funding for PACE has made it possible to hire a full-time coordinator, and newly planned activities include development of advanced technologies certificates; expanding articulation between high schools, TCTC, and four-year institutions; and developing improved advising manuals for students. (PAA)