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This research report investigates the value of vocational qualifications gained in secondary and postsecondary educational institutions for those seeking entry into the workforce for the first time. Of particular interest is the signal an occupational certification sends to employers of entry-level workers, as compared to the more traditional qualification of a two-year community/technical college degree. The research involved the presentation of fictitious resumes to managers who recruit for entry-level jobs in the automotive service and information technology (IT) industries in the US. The resumes represented typical entry-level applicants with educational levels of high school diploma only, two-year degree, certification, and both degree and certification, and work experience of none, less than two years, and two to four years. The comparison test of signaling power between the two educational qualifications studied produced a uniform preference for the two-year degree over certification. More mixed results on preference were found among automotive service managers. An in-depth analysis provides a deeper understanding of what managers look for in entry-level applicants, as well as the signaling messages sent by education, certification, and varying levels of previous work experience. The report discusses the implications of the results for career and technical education policy makers, researchers and educators. Areas for further research are suggested.