We are all becoming used to warnings of a shortage of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) recruits. In a world increasingly dominated by careers that involve these fields, organisations and politicians repeatedly state that we really must train more of these people to secure our prosperity. But STEM training is not the only answer: anecdotal evidence shows that the STEM employees who do best are those most skilled in thinking and communicating. Instead of looking to produce scientists or engineers, we should focus on turning out agile minds. The ability to process, synthesise and communicate information efficiently is the premium skill of the future.