Using the UK experience as a template, this paper explores the concept of competencies as a viable bridge to employer engagement. In this context, the definition of competency coalesces into three primary interpretations (input, output and "behaviour"), leading to three applications: work related skill sets, standards and professionalism. These in turn, inform intersecting relationships--the link between employer skills needs and education (work-based learning), educational and workplace competency, and quality (accreditation of employer based training, and credit accumulation and transfer systems) and vocational competency (fit for practice, and fit for purpose). For each element, relevant models and indicative practice is presented. The paper concludes by offsetting competencies with employer engagement, and offers approaches (vignettes) to actively advance this critical agenda. (Contains 1 table.)