A question for all you engineers : what do Pepsi , Reynolds pens and
Hero Honda bikes have in
common? Give up? They all use automation in
some way during the manufacturing process. Automation is everywhere and
it has taken a pivotal role in today’s industrial age causing many
companies to be dependent on PLCs and PLC-trained personnel. So if you
are new to PLCs, never heard of them, or know them well, it is time to
get training and I’ll tell you why:
Career Opportunities :
For those who may not know about automation or PLCs, allow me to explain. Automation is defined by Google as: the use of largely automatic equipment in a system of manufacturing or other production process. That is true, but for a more awesome explanation, let’s talk Dosas! The video below shows how dosas can be made in an automated machine. Go ahead and watch the video.
What isn’t shown in this video is the brains behind the operation or what controls the timing, temperature, level, speed, etc. of these processes. That is of course the PLC or Programmable Logic Controller. Getting the training you need, to develop, install and support PLC systems like these can open up a wealth of career opportunities for you. Who wouldn’t want that?!
Minimize the Learning Curve :
Now, for those of you who work with PLCs but are just starting out, PLC training is a great way to get ahead of the curve. Earlier, it was different when someone started his/her control engineering career. A system integrator or automation product manufacturer would take engineers in and show them everything there was to know about PLCs and PLC programming. But now, companies don’t want to invest their resources or time in training. They prefer engineers who come with this knowledge. So, if you want a career, you need to undergo PLC training. And with PLCs, just theoretical training will not take you a long way. Hands-on experience is what will further your understanding and get you ready for the career ahead.
Stay Ahead of the Curve :
“I work with PLCs every day, I don’t need training.” Well, like any technology, PLCs are constantly advancing and keeping up with new developments can benefit you as well as your company. These days the minute you buy the newest technology it is on its way to being obsolete. PLCs are no different. Advances in hardware and software are making PLCs more efficient, user friendly and cheaper. For instance, a lot of controllers can now interface with mobile apps for remote monitoring, something that wasn’t available earlier.
Keep your Options Open :
“I don’t work with PLCs at all, I don’t need training.” Maybe not. But allow me to give you some things to consider. First, a lot of companies are turning to automation to stay profitable in this economy. An understanding of what automation is and how it works could afford you the knowledge of how to automate some of the processes you do work with, saving you time and your company money. Speaking of this economy, it is always good to have a plan B. PLC training can also give you the mobility to move to another career field in case the need arises.
Further your Education :
Three words : continuing education credits.
You could be interested in Industrial Engineering or Robotics & Automation, which means PLC training will give you the fundamental knowledge you require. Alternatively, you probably are not sure what path your education will take. It’s ok. There is no harm in learning something which is an inevitable part of all industries now and is also getting into all facets of our everyday lives.
PLCs are your Friend :
Engineering is the science of solving problems. Electrical Engineering is solving those problems electrically. Automation was born to solve problems faced by production facilities but it can also be used to solve problems at home. Learning the basics of PLC technology can give you the knowledge to automate tasks performed around the house. For example, a PLC system can be used to prevent the overflow of water from the overhead tank.
Why Not ? :
The engineering field is very competitive and there is nothing lost by becoming a more well-rounded engineer.
If you are interested in PLC training, we can help.
Career Opportunities :
For those who may not know about automation or PLCs, allow me to explain. Automation is defined by Google as: the use of largely automatic equipment in a system of manufacturing or other production process. That is true, but for a more awesome explanation, let’s talk Dosas! The video below shows how dosas can be made in an automated machine. Go ahead and watch the video.
What isn’t shown in this video is the brains behind the operation or what controls the timing, temperature, level, speed, etc. of these processes. That is of course the PLC or Programmable Logic Controller. Getting the training you need, to develop, install and support PLC systems like these can open up a wealth of career opportunities for you. Who wouldn’t want that?!
Minimize the Learning Curve :
Now, for those of you who work with PLCs but are just starting out, PLC training is a great way to get ahead of the curve. Earlier, it was different when someone started his/her control engineering career. A system integrator or automation product manufacturer would take engineers in and show them everything there was to know about PLCs and PLC programming. But now, companies don’t want to invest their resources or time in training. They prefer engineers who come with this knowledge. So, if you want a career, you need to undergo PLC training. And with PLCs, just theoretical training will not take you a long way. Hands-on experience is what will further your understanding and get you ready for the career ahead.
Stay Ahead of the Curve :
“I work with PLCs every day, I don’t need training.” Well, like any technology, PLCs are constantly advancing and keeping up with new developments can benefit you as well as your company. These days the minute you buy the newest technology it is on its way to being obsolete. PLCs are no different. Advances in hardware and software are making PLCs more efficient, user friendly and cheaper. For instance, a lot of controllers can now interface with mobile apps for remote monitoring, something that wasn’t available earlier.
Keep your Options Open :
“I don’t work with PLCs at all, I don’t need training.” Maybe not. But allow me to give you some things to consider. First, a lot of companies are turning to automation to stay profitable in this economy. An understanding of what automation is and how it works could afford you the knowledge of how to automate some of the processes you do work with, saving you time and your company money. Speaking of this economy, it is always good to have a plan B. PLC training can also give you the mobility to move to another career field in case the need arises.
Further your Education :
Three words : continuing education credits.
You could be interested in Industrial Engineering or Robotics & Automation, which means PLC training will give you the fundamental knowledge you require. Alternatively, you probably are not sure what path your education will take. It’s ok. There is no harm in learning something which is an inevitable part of all industries now and is also getting into all facets of our everyday lives.
PLCs are your Friend :
Engineering is the science of solving problems. Electrical Engineering is solving those problems electrically. Automation was born to solve problems faced by production facilities but it can also be used to solve problems at home. Learning the basics of PLC technology can give you the knowledge to automate tasks performed around the house. For example, a PLC system can be used to prevent the overflow of water from the overhead tank.
Why Not ? :
The engineering field is very competitive and there is nothing lost by becoming a more well-rounded engineer.
If you are interested in PLC training, we can help.
