Skills Report 2026

  • Over 90% of organizations surveyed report at least one critical skills gap, with AI and automation cited as the number one capability shortfall
  • 60% of organizations surveyed have already experienced moderate to severe operational and financial impact from tariffs and trade disruption

Leaders increasingly recognize the importance of skills in managing disruption and unlocking opportunity, but awareness alone isn't enough.

The question this research seeks to answer is whether organizational capability is keeping pace with the reality of trade policy and technological adoption.

The Readiness Gap: A Market View of Capability Across Supply Chains for 2026

"The challenge isn't just a skills gap. It extends to how organizations measure capability, how consistently they invest in it, and how well learning is embedded into day-to-day work. The Skills Report is designed as a practical tool. For busy executives , for supply chain leaders building workforce strategies, and for L&D professionals making the case for budget allocation, the analysis that follows is intended to inform decision-making with clarity and confidence." – Sam W Pemberton, CEO Skill Dynamics