As a person who frequently play as the pilot/commander, I'd like to know the capabilities of my crew.
Of course, the levels are not the best, direct representation of player skills, but it is a good estimate of their experience.
And also, if I see that my opponents are 1s and 3s, I can safely enjoy a cheese-build (Harpoon Pyramidion, Munker, Flame Spire, etc). When I don't know my opponent's experience, I won't be at ease cheesing.
Of course, I can click on every new name in the lobby, but that's inconvenient.
I'm assuming this is a move to make the community more novice-friendly. However the community isn't biased against new players, but at new players who refuses to communicate. (I know, because I'm quite new to the game myself. You guys are awesome, btw).
So, I don't see what hiding levels are good for.
Thank you for reading,
Indreams