Diane Peters and Anne Lucietto launched a study to examine the disconnect between what engineering students need to know and learn. They designed a survey to assess the importance of machine design and solid modeling skills from industry perspectives and compare it to perceptions of graduates' competencies. Preliminary responses from 5 participants found most skills were somewhat important or higher. Respondents saw solid modeling skills as more developed in graduates than machine design abilities. The study is on hold until IRB approval and scheduling allow, and more responses are needed for significance. The goal is informing students and facilitating industry-academia discussions on expectations.