In today’s competitive job market, one where AI often screens your resume before a recruiter does, having the right skills and certifications can be the difference between getting an interview and getting passed over. According to the Indeed Editorial Team, the average recruiter spends 6–7 seconds scanning a resume. That means you have only a few seconds to stand out. Strong, relevant skills and certifications are one of the fastest ways to do that.
A polished resume can open doors—but only if it highlights the right qualifications. Let's dive deep into the skills and certifications that will help you land the job you want: How do you get the qualifications that will get you in the door? Whether you’re aiming to move up in your role or break into a new field, here’s how to figure out what you need:
Need help with your resume basics? Check out our previous blog on how to write a resume and make it stand out. Standing Out With Your Resume and How to Write a Resume
How to Know What You Need
Before you invest time or money in new training or certifications, it’s important to figure out exactly what skills will help you get closer to your goals.
Do Your Research: Visit your local tech schools and see what programs they have to offer
Look/review/analyze Job Ads: Look through multiple job listings for your target career. Pay attention to the common requirements—do they mention certain software, certifications, or industry knowledge?
Talk to Someone in the Role: Reach out at work, through your network/LinkedIn, or in your community. A short conversation can give you much insight on what skills really matter for that job.
Types of jobs that need specific skills, education, or certifications:
- Machine Operators
- Assemblers
- Production Technicians
- Management
- CNC Machinists
- Maintenance Technicians
- Quality Control
Apprenticeship programs and workforce development courses provide hands-on training and industry-recognized credentials, helping job seekers build many of the technical skills and certifications that are essential for advancing in manufacturing careers.
Examples of skills/education/certifications:
- Forklift & Material Handling
- Computer Numerical Control (CNC) certification
- Industrial Maintenance (electrical, mechanical, hydraulics, pneumatics)
- Quality Control & Inspection (calipers, micrometers, CMM usage)
- Blueprint Reading & Technical Drawing
While technical skills and certifications show what you can do, soft skills demonstrate how you work and sometimes that’s just as important. Employers want to know that you can communicate clearly, work well with a team, and adapt when challenges come up. If your resume is heavy on job duties but light on these qualities, adding soft skills can help show that you’re not only qualified, but also a strong fit for the workplace culture.
Some soft skill examples are:
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Problem-solving
- Time management
- Adaptability
- Emotional intelligence
- Leadership
- Work Ethic
- Attention to Detail
How to set yourself up for success:
- Get a mentor or coach who can guide your development.
- Take in-person or online courses.
- Role-play scenarios to practice responses to workplace challenges.
- Reflect regularly to identify what soft skills you use and which you can improve.
- Utilize AI. The use of AI-generated applications in resume writing also led to job seekers receiving an average of 7.8% more job offers and 8.4% higher wages (resumegenius.com).
Need help writing your resume or have any questions? Feel free to contact any of our HTI offices to speak with a recruiter who can help you make sure your resume is ready for review and prepared for submission. Find the location closest to you here!
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