A study investigated the competencies required to use the National Technical Information Service (NTIS) and the perceived need for its use for curriculum and instructional improvement in the Wisconsin Vocational, Technical, and Adult Education (VTAE) system. A representative sample (N=249) of VTAE instructors and staff was selected for the survey portion of the study. Survey instruments were developed and mailed to key administrative personnel and randomly distributed to VTAE instructors in selected technical areas. Results indicated (1) that 65% of the respondents agreed or strongly agreed that there is a need for an information search system such as NTIS, (2) that 87% were not aware of NTIS although 71% felt they would use such a system were it available, (3) that 38% disagreed or were undecided as to whether they were able to find new information pertinent to their technical area when they needed it, and (4) that 56% agreed that finding technical information was hard to do because technology is constantly changing. It was concluded that in order to facilitate use of a system such as NTIS, workshops will have to be offered for VTAE staff to develop the competencies needed in conducting an information search. Portable microfiche readers will also have to be made available to facilitate use of microfiche materials. A copy of the survey instrument is included. (JT)