Hard skills are technical knowledge or training that you have gained through any life experience, including in your career or education.The NCARB maintains the Architectural Registration Examination, a series of tests required of architects that test different technical skills necessary for the work.The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards also requires architects to be licensed.If you've taken an accounting class, you may know how to use Microsoft Excel.Many other industries have such tests in place, requiring prior knowledge and skills essential for career success.