Essential Skills for Success in the Age of AI
This piece was originally created in collaboration with Inside Higher Ed. Read the article here.
The vice president of academic operations for the Western Governors University School of Business participated in a panel discussion for supply chain professionals. During the event, Casey Clark introduced the school's new set of courses focused on what traditionally have been called soft skills such as communication, adaptability, and problem-solving.
When the room of supply chain professionals applauded, it signaled to Clark he’d underscored a critical point.
“This is what is missing for students that we’re hiring fresh out of school,” one executive told Clark afterward. “They are missing these skills.”
The enthusiastic response highlights a growing recognition across industries: In an era of rapid technological change and artificial intelligence (AI) development, uniquely human abilities are more crucial than ever for workplace success. According to a recent Deloitte Insights report, 92% of companies now say that human capabilities and soft skills matter more than hard skills.1
Clark uses a different term for these talents – power skills – to emphasize their critical importance. He and Sandra Sjoberg, associate dean and director of marketing and innovation programs at WGU School of Business, have become strong advocates for their central role in higher education today.
“Through research, we know this is what employers are looking for,” Sjoberg said. “It’s really employer-driven, and we know that students need to demonstrate this in the hiring process.”
