this isn't about how coarse or granular the skill list is, but how functional it is. I was going to propose that a civilian should/could have a speciality that highlights their real world life. I've been putting together a character sheet that downplays Military Rank and plays up "what you did before".
The player, being an expert in their field of architecture or computer programming, biochemistry or literature, should dedicate one of their skill ranks to it. It's not going to be useful every session but should be useful. And the same goes for vocational skills - electrician, carpentry, car mechanic...
Dice Skill Academic Vocational
d12 Elite Postgrad Master
d10 Veteran Masters/PhD Expert
d8 Experienced Graduate Experienced
d6 Novice Undergraduate Apprentice