The Unique Importance of Communication Skills
What We Found
When people think about careers in advanced manufacturing, they often think first about technical expertise—engineering, programming, robotics, automation, or specialized manufacturing skills. Those capabilities are essential. However, M-SPIRE's research revealed that employers consistently value another skill just as highly: communication.
Across Medical Technology, Semiconductor & Microelectronics Manufacturing, Sustainable Plastics Manufacturing, and Clean Technology, communication emerged as one of the most consistently requested skills regardless of industry, occupation, or education level. Employers also frequently emphasized other durable skills such as teamwork, leadership, problem solving, and critical thinking.
The message is clear: technical expertise may qualify someone for a position, but communication skills often determine how effectively they collaborate, solve problems, adapt to change, and contribute to organizational success.
Why It Matters
As advanced manufacturing becomes increasingly automated, interconnected, and team-based, employees rarely work in isolation. Engineers collaborate with technicians. Operators work alongside quality specialists. Production teams coordinate with supply chain, customers, and leadership.
This means communication is no longer a "soft skill"—it is a core workplace competency that enables technical expertise to create value.
For educators, employers, and workforce organizations, this finding suggests that workforce preparation should not focus solely on technical training. The strongest workforce pipelines will develop both technical capabilities and the durable skills that help employees succeed throughout their careers.
Questions Leaders Should Consider
Are communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills being developed intentionally—not simply assumed—in education and training programs?
How are employers helping employees continue developing these skills after they enter the workforce?
Are hiring, promotion, and performance systems recognizing durable skills alongside technical expertise?
How can educators and employers work together to better integrate communication skills into career pathways at every level?