A project involving educators and business leaders in southwestern Connecticut was undertaken to develop an intensive, competency-based business course to provide high school students with the skills to fill entry-level administrative support positions. The project was designed to: (1) recruit and motivate students with high potential for success in business careers who would not otherwise have considered preparing themselves for such occupations; (2) develop a curriculum guide based on specific, employer-identified competencies; and (3) offer a certificate of achievement that would be recognized by area employers. The project involved administration of a detailed survey of area employers in order to assess the overall need for administrative support personnel and the specific skills most needed by persons filling such positions, a survey to assess the career education needs of students, and interviews with business department heads and teachers. (Appendixes to this report include the aforementioned survey instruments; regional steering committee meeting agendas and minutes; lists of project personnel and participants; a certificate of achievement; budget information; publicity and dissemination materials; project reports; course exit criteria; and a curriculum guide addressing the following topics: using the telephone properly, managing records, handling mail, relating to corporate culture, identifying career opportunities, recognizing different types of business organizations, and understanding different types of business management.) (MN)