This paper, written to inform members of the American Association for Counseling and Development (formerly the American Personnel and Guidance Association) about high technology developments and what counselors are doing in this area, reviews the transition of the United States and other developed nations from industrial to post-industrial societies, and discusses the effects on individuals and nations of economic upheavals, changes in work, and shifting expectations for productivity. The history of counselors' involvement with high technology is reviewed, and major industrial breakthroughs of the past 50 years are outlined. Emerging occupations are also described. The role of employment in people's lives is discussed as well as the role of education and counseling in training and retraining. The emotional stress of labor force changes is explored, particularly with respect to specific populations and regional factors. Two national priorities are identified: basic education, with emphasis on math and science, and the creation of new, long term approaches to training and retraining workers with obsolete skills and knowledge, in order to provide them with access to emerging work opportunities. The role of counselors and related specialists is discussed. The paper concludes with recommendations for counselors. (JAC)