Hey there! I'm in my second year of a maintenance engineering apprenticeship but have realized that I'd like to shift my career towards becoming a PLC programmer. I'm eager to expand my knowledge in this field and am seeking recommendations on courses and companies I can approach to kickstart this journey. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance!
Completing an engineering apprenticeship and obtaining certificated qualifications is essential for pursuing a career in PLC programming. This field requires a strong understanding of electrical, instrumentation, and even mechanical concepts. It can be challenging to break into the industry while also earning a salary. In the UK and other countries, courses can be costly and of varying quality, especially those offered by local colleges. To enhance your skills, I recommend self-learning and taking additional courses if feasible. Many free programming IDEs are available, some equipped with simulators to help you further your expertise. If you cannot find a company willing to provide training, you may have to take the initiative on your own. Once you have gained some knowledge, you may have better luck securing opportunities with companies in need of your skills.
Before delving into the design and upgrade of controls, it is imperative to possess a thorough understanding of the machines and processes being programmed. With over a decade of experience in industrial maintenance and supervision at an automotive stamping plant, I was thrust into the world of PLC programming and tasked with troubleshooting. My background in mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering provided a solid foundation for learning about new processes and developing controls. One member, Peter, exemplified this concept by immersing himself in hydraulic engineering while designing a hydraulic control system. When faced with equipment issues like a motor failure, it often falls on the programmer to diagnose and fix the problem, whether it's related to the PLC or a mechanical fault like a sheared key in a gear. Collaborating with a Siemens programmer on a project further reinforced the importance of comprehensive expertise. Unlike specialists in certain fields, such as chemical engineering focusing solely on specific chemicals, we were expected to have a broad knowledge base across various industries. This holistic approach allowed us to address any issues that arose with the machines or processes, making us the go-to experts for troubleshooting.
Greetings! As an American, I may not be familiar with the procedures in your region, but I can share insights based on my experience at the engineering firm where I am employed. Our team consists of programmers who have backgrounds in chemical, mechanical, and safety engineering. Personally, I am an electrician by profession and an electrical engineer by education, with a growing interest in PLC programming. During my time as an industrial electrician, I actively collaborated with mechanical engineers to comprehend the mechanical aspects of the machinery. This hands-on experience was crucial in enhancing my understanding of industrial programming. In my spare time, I pursued online courses on platforms like Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, and YouTube. I also took advantage of free training resources on Rockwell's website, such as the comprehensive FT Echo training course currently available. Upon completing each course, I diligently printed out certificates to build a portfolio showcasing my skills. This portfolio also includes samples of projects I have contributed to. Personally, I believe practical experience in problem-solving is more valuable than theoretical knowledge gained in a classroom setting. Additionally, the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, as evidenced by references, is a key trait I value in potential hires. While some employers may prioritize formal education, I believe that gaining hands-on experience and building a strong portfolio are essential steps in securing employment opportunities. In my opinion, getting your foot in the door, even at a lower-level position, is a valuable starting point to grow and advance in your career. In the competitive job market, experience is often the distinguishing factor for candidates, especially in the context of the United States job market.
In the professional world, it is common to see that while large companies demand numerous qualifications from their employees, many individuals with these qualifications struggle to apply their knowledge in practical situations. This challenge is faced not only by employees but also by employers themselves. It is not uncommon to encounter highly educated individuals with impressive degrees who lack practical skills in their field. For example, I once met an old school friend with multiple honours degrees from university. Despite working as a battery scientist for a prominent train company, he struggled to troubleshoot his own motorbike when it wouldn't start due to a dead battery. This highlights the importance of practical experience alongside formal education in achieving success in one's career.
During a casual meetup, I ran into an old friend who had completed multiple degrees with honors at university. Surprisingly, he was now employed as a battery scientist for a renowned train company, working on developing innovative batteries for locomotives. While lending a hand with his motorcycle that wouldn't start, I discovered the battery was completely drained. I advised him to either charge it up or consider getting a new one. The conversation reminded me of an incident with an inexperienced electrician who was recommended to me by a relative in the welding department. Despite lacking prior experience, he was tasked with troubleshooting a complex issue involving a 1,000-ton press on the second shift. The electrical work he had done previously was limited to replacing lights and thermostats at fast-food restaurants. It was a challenging situation as he grappled with a lengthy schematic and struggled to identify the reference point. Such experiences make for memorable anecdotes in the industrial world.
It's awesome to see your eagerness to learn and adapt! PLC programming is indeed a productive field. I'd recommend initiating your journey by taking online courses from websites like Coursera or Udemy - they offer comprehensive learning material on PLC programming. As for companies, Siemens, Rockwell, and Mitsubishi are big names in this industry, and they provide several resources and info about getting started with PLC. Remember, persistence is key. Good luck with your pursuit!
Hi! Switching careers can be quite fulfilling. I'd recommend starting out with online platforms like Udemy and Coursera, they offer great beginner courses on PLC programming. Also, companies like Siemens and Rockwell provide certified training as well. Remember, practical exposure is vital, so try and get some hands-on experience if possible. Experimenting with borrowed or inexpensive old PLCs can be a great way to start. Best of luck with your career transition!
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Answer: 1. Q: What are some recommended courses for transitioning from maintenance engineering to PLC programming? To transition from maintenance engineering to PLC programming, you can consider taking courses in PLC programming, industrial automation, and control systems. Online platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning offer a variety of courses in these areas.
Answer: You can start by researching companies that specialize in industrial automation, manufacturing, or engineering services. Networking through platforms like LinkedIn, attending industry events, and reaching out directly to HR departments can help you connect with potential employers in the field of PLC programming.
Answer: Yes, prior experience in maintenance engineering can be beneficial for a career in PLC programming as it provides a strong foundation in understanding industrial systems and processes. Skills such as troubleshooting, problem-solving, and familiarity with machinery can be valuable assets when transitioning to PLC programming.
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