Força de trabalho e capital intelectual no contexto da educação profissional, científica e tecnológica no Brasil

The ability to turn knowledge into innovation is key to companies and countries competitiveness. In this context, the human resources qualification together with professional and human education within a development integrated view are extremely important. Thus, the aim was to propose reflections on the workforce and intellectual capital in college and technological education in Brazil, specifically in the Professional, Scientific and Technologic Federal Network Education (PSTFNE). A documentary and bibliographic research for this purpose was done. It was observed that the current vocational education policy brought the perspective of human capital generation to boost innovation, however a major challenge has been a diverse and flexible training in tune with the demands of society and productive sectors. It was recognized that the PSTFNE is composed by vocational/educational institutions which are natural agents from National Education System (NES) - as well as - the National Innovation System (NIS) in Brazil. The PSTFNE as Vocational Education and Training organizations are able to train the workforce as well as human capital, with ability to recognize the importance of entrepreneurship, research and development, intellectual property and innovation. However, the recognition of their role is essential in order to these institutions might underpin the development and competitiveness of the country.