Employers have looked to postsecondary schools as a source of trained workers, including graduates of both vocational and general education programs. Fifty-four successful and effective community college programs focus on innovative strategies for meeting current and future work force developments and requirements. The partnership programs begin with School to College and continue to College to College and Community Colleges, Businesses, and Agencies. Private Industry Councils (PIC) are now an instrument of a marketplace that demands more efficient allocation of the labor force. PICs are generally referred to work force development boards who represent stakeholders and providers of local work force programs based on specific needs of the business community. Schools need to cultivate critical thinking and provide an environment for understanding the changing environment and what will be required of the 21st century economy. Schools should focus on active learning, acquiring methods or processes of solving problems, relevant learning, and meeting community needs. (Contains 10 references.) (YLB)