The principal objectives of the study were to assess: awareness and take up of NVQs among engineering companies; the implications of designing qualifications to meet NCVQ requirements; the effects of NVQs on the quality and quantity of training in the engineering industry; the extent to which the NVQ system helps companies to cope with the new training needs which are arising as a consequence of technology and organisational change. The terms of reference specified that the study should concentrate on `intermediate engineering skills' i.e. craft, technician and supervisory skills because of the crucial role these skills play in engineering competitiveness. Awareness and knowledge of NVQs; benefits of NVQ standard assessments; adoption and consideration of NVQs; effect of NVQs on training programs