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Building Blocks Model

Building Blocks Model

The CMC's Building Blocks Model is a both a resource and a guide for authors experienced in competency modeling or those new to the process. The Building Blocks Model can be used to communicate fundamental workforce needs, as the basis for nationwide Industry Competency Models or custom competency models.

The Building Blocks Model consists of six tiers that serve as a framework for understanding competencies needed in a specific workforce. Tiers 1 through 3, known as the Foundational Tiers, provides fundamental skills required for success in a job. Tier 1 covers personal and interpersonal competencies, which might include soft skills like communication. Tier 2 involves academic and technical competencies typically learned in elementary and secondary school, forming the basis for higher-level skills. Tier 3 focuses on workplace competencies that enable individuals to function effectively in an organizational setting.

Tiers 4 and 5, referred to as the Industry Tiers, are specific to industries or subsegments. Tier 4 includes technical competencies applicable across an entire industry, while Tier 5 deals with more specialized competencies within industry subsegments. For example, Advanced Manufacturing is an industry sector on Tier 4, while competencies specific to the manufacturing of certain products, such as Semiconductors, go on Tier 5.

The Building Blocks Model framework aids in competency modeling efforts, helping developers identify the skills needed for various roles. Tier 6 acts as a placeholder for occupation-specific and managerial competencies, which are highly specialized and specific to jobs.

To ensure that the Building Blocks Model reflects the foundational knowledge and skills needed by today’s workforce, ETA conducts reviews of all models in the Clearinghouse to analyze various changes across industries. As such, the Building Blocks Model has been updated in Tiers 1-3 over time to reflect revised changes in employability skills, workplace health and safety, and digital skills. For a more detailed description of the changes, download the Summary of Changes.

The industry model frameworks are based on the Building Blocks Model and then modified to meet industry needs. Scroll down to view the Building Blocks or select an industry model from the left menu.

Download the industry model and worksheets in several formats    It is an image of png format for download button

Generic Building Blocks Competency Model

Generic Building Blocks Pyramid


<strong>1.1 Interpersonal Skills</strong> Displaying the skills to work effectively with others. <strong>1.2 Integrity</strong> Displaying strong moral principles and work ethic. <strong>1.3 Professionalism</strong> Maintaining a professional presence. <strong>1.4 Initiative</strong> Demonstrating a commitment to effective job performance by taking action on one’s own and following through to get the job done. <strong>1.5 Dependability and Reliability</strong> Displaying responsible behaviors at work. <strong>1.6 Adaptability and Flexibility</strong> Displaying the capability to adapt to new, different or changing requirements. <strong>1.7 Lifelong Learning</strong> Demonstrating a commitment to self-development and improvement of knowledge and skills. <strong>2.1 Reading</strong> Understanding written sentences, paragraphs, and figures in work-related documents on paper, on computers, or adaptive devices. <strong>2.2 Writing</strong> Using standard business English to compile information and prepare written documents on paper, on computers, or adaptive devices. <strong>2.3 Mathematics</strong> Using mathematics to solve problems. <strong>2.4 Science and Technology</strong> Using scientific rules and methods to express ideas and solve problems on paper, on computers, or on adaptive devices. <strong>2.5 Communication</strong> Listening, speaking, and signaling so others can understand using a variety of methods, including hearing, speech, American Sign Language, instant messaging, text-to-speech devices, etc. <strong>2.6 Critical and Analytical Thinking</strong> Using logical thought processes to analyze information and draw conclusions. <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 Teamwork</strong> Working cooperatively with others to complete work assignments. <strong>3.2 Customer Focus</strong> Efficiently and effectively addressing the needs of clients/customers. <strong>3.3 Planning and Organizing</strong> Planning and prioritizing work to manage time effectively and accomplish assigned tasks. <strong>3.4 Creative Thinking</strong> Generating innovative and creative solutions. <strong>3.5 Problem Solving and Decision-Making</strong> Generating, evaluating, and implementing solutions to problems. <strong>3.6 Working with Tools and Technology</strong> Selecting, using, and maintaining tools and technology, including adaptive tools and technology, to facilitate work activity (with accommodation when necessary). <strong>3.7 Scheduling and Coordinating</strong> Making arrangements that fulfill all requirements as efficiently and economically as possible. <strong>3.8 Checking, Examining, and Recording</strong> Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/digital format, including adaptive devices and software. <strong>3.9 Business Fundamentals</strong> Using information on basic business principles, trends, and economics. <strong>3.10 Sustainable Practices</strong> Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. <strong>3.11 Health and Safety</strong> Supporting a safe and healthy workplace. <strong>Staffing</strong> <strong>Informing</strong> <strong>Delegating</strong> <strong>Networking</strong> <strong>Monitoring Work</strong> <strong>Entrepreneurship</strong> <strong>Supporting Others</strong> <strong>Motivating and Inspiring</strong> <strong>Developing and Mentoring</strong> <strong>Strategic Planning/Action</strong> <strong>Preparing and Evaluating Budgets</strong> <strong>Clarifying Roles and Objectives</strong> <strong>Managing Conflict and Team Building</strong> <strong>Developing an Organizational Vision</strong> <strong>Monitoring and Controlling Resources</strong> Click here to search for O*NET Occupational Competencies Profiles