This is a presentation of a conference paper, in absence, about the importance of enhancing the status of vocational education and training and the occupation it serves. Centrally, it draws upon a study in Australia which sought to identify how that standing might be enhanced through engagement with young people, their teachers, parents and others. It provides an overview of the reasons why addressing this problem is worthwhile, the means by which the research was undertaken and some strategies and approaches to begin to address this issue. Attached to the conference presentation is reference to additional resources and references.