Because Literacy and Essential Skills are so important to economic development, it is vital to know the competencies needed by the educators who deliver Literacy and Essential Skills programming. Likewise, Literacy and Essential Skills are crucial for labour market attachment. Low-skilled work has been most affected by technological change. There was a need to examine the competencies required by educators working in this field so that they can be recognized for the skills they possess and the impact they have on Canada's economic competitiveness. It is important to consider ways to move forward so that there is support for increased labour market attachment and increased skills. To this end Canadian Literacy and Learning Network (CLLN) undertook the research reported herein. This think paper explores the following areas: (1) Literacy and Essential Skills providers have a role in ensuring the competencies of educators delivering Literacy and Essential Skills programs in the workplace; (2) Competencies include characteristics that should be considered as well as qualifications; and (3) Dealing with the loss of experienced educators and the needs of educators new to the field--mentoring and observation. A bibliography is included.