This study reviews one of the factors that prior studies have failed to consider as barriers to post-secondary success. The study sample for this project was workers from the construction industry. An absence of research on post-secondary education success, from the perspective of workers was found. A study was undertaken to fill that void, producing 175 nationwide responses to an online survey of construction workers. The survey identified how well these workers believe their high school education prepared them for success in their careers, whether high schools are preparing current students better, or worse, and what secondary education systems need to do differently to improve students' success in this industry. The survey included some open-ended questions. Twelve in-depth interviews were conducted following upon key points. A treasure trove of valuable information was produced. Due to the amount of data collected this article is only able to summarize some of the key outcomes of the survey.