ETS Skills Taxonomy

Abstract

In an era driven by rapid technological advancements human skills are becoming ever more important. As millions of workers reskill and upskill to meet the challenges of the modern workforce, it’s critical they understand what skills are being emphasized by employers and pathways leading to skills acquisition. This paper reviews influential frameworks for essential workforce skills and proposes the ETS Skills Taxonomy 2025. The Taxonomy brings a broad set of cognitive, interpersonal, intrapersonal, digital, and lifelong learning skills with definition and assessment considerations. In particular, it highlights new skills such as sciential skills, remote work, and coachability as a new workforce is being jointly shaped by shifting skills requirements and societal needs that call for inclusion and agility.