Ballerinas as analysts: Former ballet dancers’ transfer of 21st century skills to careers as data analysts

This qualitative study examines 21st century skills used by former ballerinas in their current careers as data analysts. Using the Partnership for 21st Century Learning’s list of 21st century skills as the framework, four unstructured interviews were analyzed. The findings indicate that the former ballerinas (1) articulate a connection between the creativity needed for ballet and data analysis, (2) recognize that their ballet training helped them develop 21st century skills needed to be data analysts, and (3) suggest that being a dancer influences their identity. These findings can contribute to the discussion of developing transferable skills essential to workplace success.