The professional practice of career development is generally recognized as beginning with Frank Parsons's pioneering work in 1909. During the twentieth century, career counselors were instrumental in efforts that ranged from helping to integrate new immigrants into the American labor force, to identifying how the talents of individuals could best be used during the war years,and then to guiding millionsofpeople throughout their lives in making career decisions and developing fulfilling careers. What will the twenty-first century and the new millennium hold for our profession?
Workplace and societal trends, changing demographics, and new technologies will, undoubtedly, continue to shape the direction of the professional practice ofcareer development. At the dawn of the new millennium, authors of this commemorative issue have reflected on the rich history of career development during the past century and anticipated imminent challenges and developments.
This commemorative issue begins with a historical perspective by Edwin Herr that describes how our profession responded to events of the day and evolved to its current status. The second article includes the responses from an interview conducted by Rich Feller, Stevie Honaker, and Lynn Zagzebski with three of the most influential career development theorists of the day: John Holland, JoAnn Harris-Bowlsbey, and John Krumboltz. Next is a timeline, compiled by Edwin Herr and Michael Shahnasarian, of important milestones in the history of career development. Kenneth Hoyt and Pat Nellor Wickwire discuss trends in career education respective of the school counselor.
Computers and other technologies, which had a profound effect on how career development services were delivered in the latter part of the twentieth century, are discussed with reference to career development trends by JoAnn Harris-Bowlsbey and James Sampson. Sunny Hansen presents insight on how career counselors can combine career and life development in a more complex and demanding world. MichaelShahnasarian presents the concept of career rehabilitation, a concept that integrates career development and vocational rehabilitation practice.
I am especially grateful to the authors, the leadership of the National Career Development Association, and Spencer Niles for their collective work and support in bringing this commemorative issue to fruition. The tireless commitment of many, many colleagues has shaped the professional practice of career development into a vital discipline for the twenty-first century.