The rapid development of new technology makes continuing education of health professionals a challenge. University-based research groups supported by NIH, CDC, NIDRR, and MCH provide training settings for developmental disabilities researchers. Despite these programs, there is great need for additional epidemiologists with expertise in developmental disabilities. More leadership is needed in schools of public health to encourage program participants to enter this field. Development of coherent career tracts in universities and state health agencies is needed to keep capable researchers in the field.