In 1981, a study was conducted to explore the characteristics of students enrolled in career-technical programs in the community colleges and technical institutes of British Columbia. The first phase of a longitudinal look at these students, the study investigated demographic characteristics; educational, experience, and employment backgrounds; educational objectives; and immediate and long-range career and educational goals. Data sheets were distributed to students entering all career technical programs; 65% of the target population at the colleges and 46% at the technical institutes responded. Findings include the following: (1) the majority of the students were female, and at least 50% were over 25 years of age and enrolled part-time; (2) the educational and career levels of the students' parents were above the provincial average; (3) 10% of the students held bachelor's degrees while an additional 30% had undertaken some postsecondary study; (4) over 66% of the students indicated that their work experience related to their educational program; (5) students over 25 years of age reported enrolling to improve skills, while college-age students sought credentials; (6) "close to home" and "institutional reputation" were the most frequently cited reasons for enrolling in a particular institution; and (7) over 90% indicated that further education was included in their future plans. The study report compares results from the colleges and technical institutes. (KL)