N.C. A&T Online Blog

What truly makes a professional thrive in a world that never stops changing? As technology advances, industries evolve and job titles come and go, one thing remains clear: some abilities stand the test of time. These are known as durable skills, lasting strengths that form the backbone of success in every career field and prepare you for success.

While technical expertise may change with innovations, durable skills such as communication, critical thinking and adaptability become more valuable in our dynamic and interconnected workplaces. Employers across industries are seeking professionals who can lead teams, solve problems creatively and navigate complex situations.

A foundational education, such as a liberal studies degree, can help students hone these skills and stay relevant in a professional landscape that’s always evolving. 

What Are Durable Skills?

Durable skills are abilities that remain relevant despite technological and professional advancements. Also referred to as soft skills, these capabilities encompass how individuals think, solve problems, communicate, adapt to change and collaborate. As innovations in automation and artificial intelligence (AI) continue to transform technical work, durable skills are what distinguish professionals as creative, strategic and empathetic thinkers.

A liberal studies education plays a powerful role in developing these skills. Through studies in the humanities, social sciences and communication, students learn to analyze complex issues, understand different perspectives and express ideas clearly. This interdisciplinary approach creates well-rounded graduates who are prepared for success in a wide array of industries.

5 Durable Skills for Success

Below are five durable skills that empower professionals to lead, adapt and remain flexible across roles.

Communication

Effective communication is at the heart of every successful team and organization. The ability to clearly express ideas, both orally and in writing, builds trust, fosters collaboration and enhances leadership presence.

• Example: Drafting reports, leading presentations or managing stakeholder relationships.
• In-demand across roles in the public relations, management, policy and nonprofit sectors.

Critical Thinking

Critical thinking allows professionals to analyze data, assess evidence and make informed decisions in complex situations.

• Example: Policy analysts or planners who evaluate competing priorities and propose practical solutions.
• Essential for leadership, research and strategy-driven careers in which clear judgment and problem-solving are crucial.

Cultural Awareness and Intersectionality

Understanding different perspectives is essential across industries more than ever. Cultural awareness and intersectionality enable professionals to collaborate effectively, lead respectfully and adapt to a range of cultural contexts.

• Example: Nonprofit directors and educators navigating multicultural environments or designing programs for specific communities.
• Employers value empathy and awareness as key leadership traits.

Organization and Development

Organization and development skills ensure that projects run smoothly and goals are met efficiently. These abilities include managing time, setting priorities and coordinating teams to achieve shared outcomes.

• Example: Program directors balancing budgets, schedules and performance metrics while maintaining mission focus.
• These skills are critical in business, education and public service, where structure and adaptability drive success.

Research and Writing

The ability to gather, evaluate and communicate information effectively is a cornerstone of professional excellence. Research and writing skills empower individuals to craft persuasive arguments, create well-supported analyses and drive data-informed decisions.

• Example: Grant writers and communication specialists preparing proposals or policy briefs that advance organizational goals.
• Strong writing remains vital in nearly every field, from business and government to nonprofits and academia.

Together, these durable skills form the foundation of professional resilience. They empower individuals not only to succeed in their current roles but also to adapt and lead as the workplace continues to change.

Why Durable Skills Matter in Today’s Workplace

Technology continues to reshape industries at lightning speed, but durable skills are what keep professionals grounded, adaptable and valuable over time. While technical expertise may evolve with every new platform or app, durable skills such as communication, critical thinking and cultural awareness prepare professionals to navigate change effectively.

Durable skills are also the foundation for long-term career mobility. As job titles shift and industries transform, professionals who possess these skills can transition seamlessly into new roles and leadership positions. By cultivating durable skills, individuals not only remain relevant but also become forward-thinking professionals who inspire innovation and adaptability.

Choose a Liberal Studies Education to Build Durable Skills

A liberal studies education is one of the most effective ways to develop durable skills. These programs cultivate versatility, critical analysis and ethical decision-making — traits that empower graduates to thrive. Students explore a range of disciplines, from psychology and sociology to business and communication, learning how external influences impact human behavior. This interdisciplinary approach can build adaptable, well-rounded professionals who employers seek.

The online Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Liberal Studies program at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is a flexible online program that allows working professionals to continue advancing their education without pausing their lives. Graduates can bring their background knowledge and emerge with sharpened communication, problem-solving and leadership skills, ready to excel in various sectors. They can pursue roles in business, government, education and social services.

Explore how the online B.A. in Liberal Studies can help strengthen your durable skills, elevate your career and prepare you for a future-ready path forward.

Sources:

Communications of the ACM, “Durable Skills in the Age of AI”

Forbes, “Some Skills Are Durable & Some Perishable: Do You Know Which Is Which?”

Hays, “How Can Organizations Improve on Intersectionality?”

Inc., “5 Powerful Ways to Win in Today’s Fast-Changing Workplace”

Lightcast, New Research With America Succeeds Tracks the Growing Demand for Durable Skills