Because of the need for increased numbers of qualified industrial arts teachers, this study was designed to identify factors that influence the choice of industrial education as a major for adult students in certification programs throughout the United States. A representative sample of adult students in industrial education departments of colleges throughout the country was identified and questionnaires were mailed to them with 242 usable questionnaires returned. The results of the study indicate that most adult students are preparing for their second careers. Half of them decided to study industrial arts while working and not attending classes. Most adult students in industrial arts are upperclass or graduate students, and most have served at least one year in active military service. About two-thirds are self-supporting, and most work while going to school. In general, adult students did not perceive recruitment practices used by colleges to be effective. However, practices entailing personal contact with industrial arts professionals were considered effective. Personal interest, personal preference, and personal improvement were factors that were considered to be important to adult students' selection of industrial arts as a major. Factors related to making contributions to others were also rated highly. The study concluded that recruitment efforts aimed at adults must be carefully planned and based on the identified characteristics of potential students. (Author/KC)