We now have a set of routines available that will be the building blocks for the new skill system.
Thorn has put together some information to document this.
read some info about skill handling
Not only can you read it, but there is code inside it meant for pasting into objects that will respond to or manipulate skills.
Thorn has tested each of these routines and will turn his attention towards coding new versions of commands that are currently dealing with the pocket-variable skill implementation.
So don't expect to see anything new for a while from the laboratory. When he is done, the new system shouldn't seem any different than the current one at first, since it involves a conversion.
But then, the birth of the new system brings opportunity for coding objects that can interact with your skills in new ways. And new skills will be introduced over time.