Abstract
INTRODUCTION: This research evaluates the generic competences of the managers that belong to the 20 World Class Sectors, according to the Productive Transformation Program in Colombia. METHOD: A survey applied to 280 managers seeks to evaluate the 27 generic competences of the Tuning Project, using descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis to measure three dimensions: motivation/commitment, self-efficacy and the competence's origin. RESULTS: The most necessary skills to boost the positioning of these companies in international markets are the weakest. The findings' relevance indicates that the managers' commitment and motivation is greater than the effectiveness in their performance; also, the findings emphasize the family education as one of the main sources of their competences.