Washington State's Tech Prep program: Not living up to its promise

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the success of Washington State's Tech Prep program by examining Tech Prep's influence on high school students' pursuit of technical training immediately following high school. Using data from the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges, this study explored the impact of Tech Prep on enrollment and completion of college technical training on high school seniors in 2002--03 that earned Tech Prep credits (n=7,339).;This study found earning Tech Prep credits is positively related to enrolling in the colleges and technical training. Tech Prep credits were negatively related to completing this training. Regression analysis showed that selecting a program of study (in IT, medical, trades, criminal justice/fire fighting) and working full-time were positive predictors of enrolling in college technical training. Meanwhile, seeking a degree, being undecided about a program of study or earning Tech Prep credits through the Thurston County Tech Prep Consortium were negative predictors. The amount of Tech Prep credits earned was not a significant predictor.;With regards to completing college technical training, two positive predictors were found: college GPA and working full-time. No negative predictors were found. The number of Tech Prep credits earned was insignificant in predicting completion.;This study's findings have implications for improving the success of Washington's Tech Prep program through an emphasis on programs of study. The State's current focus on a simple measure of performance---the number of students earning Tech Prep credit---is hindering the program from living up to its promise of increasing completion rates in post-secondary technical training for high school students.;These findings have further implications for policy makers concerned with improving both the transition to and completion of post-secondary technical training for high school students. Policy makers need to focus Tech Prep efforts and activities on specific, attractive programs of study. Statewide reporting and funding should focus on percentages of students who enroll in and complete college technical training. Policy makers have the opportunity to differentiate Tech Prep from the other credit-based transition programs in Washington State and bring renewed value and respect to technical education and careers.