I think a lot of this distinction comes down to individual vs group focus.

Being good at your own work makes you useful.

However being strategic, thinking about the bigger picture, AND being able to effectively communicate that while navigating the complex social interactions of your leadership team, that makes you valued and will lead to a path to leadership (managerial or technical).

So many of is have poor social skills. It pays to focus on them and not just the skills relevant to your tasks at hand.