Explore KSACs by Pathway
In late 2025, the Partnership pulled together members of industry from across tech to share how the in-demand skillsets for entry-level roles in their fields have changed in the last two years. The Knowledge, Skills & Abilities and Credentials (KSACs) below reflect their feedback on entry-level expectations, especially in a tech workplace increasingly shaped by AI.
The below KSAs are cross-cutting skills identified as in-demand across tech specializations. In addition to core technical skills like basic data literacy and fluency in the fundamentals of generative AI, professional skills like communication, problem solving, and project management have been added given the increasing importance of these skillsets as technology rapidly evolves.
4. Problem Solving, Critical Thinking & Judgment
| Label | KSAC Description | Bloom's Taxonomy Level | |
|---|---|---|---|
| a | Apply critical thinking to define problems, evaluate information, consider alternatives, and select appropriate solutions | skill | 5 |
| b | Decompose complex problems or projects into manageable tasks and logical steps. | skill | 4 |
| c | Demonstrate resourcefulness by attempting solutions independently and leveraging documentation, peers, and tools before escalating for help. | skill | 3 |
| d | Explain when and how to appropriately ask for help, including articulating what has already been attempted. | knowledge | 2 |
| e | Identify relevant data or evidence needed to support analysis, decisions, or recommendations. | skill | 4 |
| f | Balance attention to detail with an understanding of immediate team goals and priorities. | skill | 4 |