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Automation

Automation Competency Model

The Automation Competency Model framework was developed through a collaborative effort involving the Employment and Training Administration (ETA) and industry experts from the International Society of Automation.

In 2025, the foundational tiers of the model were updated to align with changes in the Building Blocks Model. For more information, download the Summary of Changes.

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Automation Competency Model

Automation Building Blocks Pyramid

<strong>1.1 Interpersonal Skills</strong> Demonstrating the ability to work effectively with others. <strong>1.2 Integrity</strong> Displaying accepted social and work behaviors. <strong>1.3 Personal Acceptability</strong> Maintaining a socially acceptable demeanor. <strong>1.4 Initiative</strong> Demonstrating a willingness to work. <strong>1.5 Dependability and Reliability</strong> Displaying responsible behaviors at work. <strong>1.6 Lifelong Learning </strong> Displaying a willingness to learn and apply new knowledge and skills. <strong>2.1 Reading</strong> Understanding written English sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents. <strong>2.2 Writing</strong> Using standard English to compile information and prepare written reports. <strong>2.3 Mathematics</strong> Using principles of mathematics such as algebra, geometry, and trigonometry to solve problems. <strong>2.4 Science</strong> Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems. <strong>2.5 Communication – Listening and Speaking</strong> Giving full attention to what others are saying and speaking in English well enough to be understood by others. <strong>2.6 Critical and Analytical Thinking</strong> Using logic, reasoning, and analysis to address problems. <strong>2.7 Basic Computer Skills</strong> Using information technology and related applications, including adaptive devices and software, to convey and retrieve information. <strong>3.1 Business Fundamentals</strong> Knowledge of basic business principles, trends, and economics. <strong>3.2 Teamwork</strong> Working cooperatively with others to complete work assignments. <strong>3.3 Adaptability and Flexibility</strong> Being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace. <strong>3.4 Marketing and Customer Focus</strong> Actively looking for ways to identify market demands and meet the customer, client, or stakeholder need. <strong>3.5 Scheduling and Coordinating</strong> Planning and prioritizing work to manage time effectively and accomplish assigned tasks as efficiently as possible. <strong>3.6 Creative Thinking and Problem Solving</strong> Applying creative-thinking skills to solve problems by generating, evaluating, and implementing solutions. <strong>3.7 Checking, Examining, and Recording</strong> Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/digital format. <strong>3.8 Working with Tools and Technology</strong> Selecting, using, and maintaining tools and technology to facilitate work activity. <strong>3.9 Personal Health and Safety</strong> Complying with procedures for a safe and healthy work environment. <strong>3.10 Sustainability</strong> Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. <strong>4.1 Design and Development Lifecycles</strong> Analyze, design and develop solutions to monitor and control the production and delivery of goods and services. <strong>4.2 Operations Management</strong> Design, commission, monitor, control, and improve technology that supports production and process schedules to meet customer requirements. <strong>4.3 Maintenance, Installation, and Repair</strong> Maintain and optimize technology in support of process or manufacturing equipment and systems. <strong>4.4 Operational Quality Assurance</strong> Ensure product and process meets quality requirements as defined by customer specifications. <strong>4.5 Process and Equipment Health, Safety, and Environment</strong> Equipment, practices, and procedures which promote a healthy and safe work environment. <strong>5.1 Context of Automation</strong> Systems, processes, applications, and standards supporting the design and application of automation. <strong>5.2 Field Devices</strong> The sensing, measurement, and final control elements necessary for automation. <strong>5.3 Control</strong> Ensuring predictable, stable, and consistent operation. <strong>5.4 Infrastructure</strong> Design and implement the operational technology infrastructure for Automation Systems. <strong>5.5 System Safety and Reliability</strong> Understand, design and implement safe and reliable machinery and process control and safety systems. <strong>5.6 Industrial Automation and Control Systems (IACS) Cybersecurity</strong> The knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to understand the purpose and implement the function of cybersecurity in operational technology, including tools and systems. <strong>5.7 Performance Management and Decision Support</strong> The knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to understand the purpose and implement the function of Data Analytics principles in operational technology, including tools and systems. Analyze and understand the results. Click here to search for O*NET Occupational Competencies Profiles

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How To

Download the industry model and worksheets in several formats

Instructions to view the model graphic

General Information

The "Building Blocks"

Frequently Asked Questions

Competency Model Development and Use (PDF)