The U.S. workforce is not prepared for the demands of today's workplace (Conference Board, 2006), Previously, workplace employers emphasized environments where the main thrust was expertise in technical skills of employees. However, a shift occurred that caused employers to realize the importance of soft skills in order to maximize business relationships. One major soft skill emphasized is the importance of a positive work ethic, which is a necessary attribute for any successful worker (R. Hill, 1996). Not only has there been a shift regarding the importance and implementation of soft skills in the business environment, but employers who once relied heavily upon adults as employees also now rely upon adolescents as employees. These adolescents are expected to provide the same positive work ethic as adults. Some of these adolescent employees are students in a co-op program in their local high schools where they obtain training in work ethic. The primary purpose of this study was to determine the perception of employers and supervisors regarding the work ethic of employed high school co-op and employed high school non-co-op students. Work ethic descriptors within this study that were examined included interpersonal skills, initiative, and dependability. The descriptors mentioned were statistically examined to ascertain differences in employer/supervisor perceptions among the two groups of students. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]