Machine Control Academy

An introduction to industrial machine control and automation focusing on Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). Learn about PLCs and how to program, troubleshoot and operate them in an automated manufacturing environment.

Start to build and hone your knowledge in industrial machine control and develop skills in programming, application and operation of programmable Logic controllers [PLCs]
In this course students will work with several leading PLCs brands in industry including Siemens, Rockwell Automation/Allen Bradley and Phoenix Contact.

What to Expect:

• Three-day course
• Developed for individuals considering career opportunities in Industrial machine control and automation and industry professionals looking to brush up on their capabilities in the application and operation of programmable logic controllers (PLCs).This course covers the fundamentals of PLC programming and operation including digital communication protocols in the modern manufacturing environment.

You will learn about:

• • Industrial machine control principles and applications.
  • How to integrate, program, operate and troubleshoot PLCs
  • Project set-up steps and the fundamentals of ladder logic programming
  • Sensors and actuators and principles of inputs/outputs (1/0)
  • Human machine interface (HMI) systems and how to program them
  • Alarms and feedback control
  • Common digital communication protocols
  • Intro to Supervisory Control & Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems

Course Benefits

• Understand how PLCs work and the benefits they provide for automation in manufacturing
• Work with and learn about several leading PLC brands
• Learn how to program using ladder logic and other programming languages
• Become versed in design, set-up, implementation and troubleshooting of automated machine control systems

Target Audience/Pre-requisites: Individuals looking to learn about PLCs and how to conduct set-up and programming. Some experience in manufacturing preferred. HS Diploma/GED required with interest in programming and logic system. Roles include technician, technologist, automation technician and engineer, equipment operator, OT/IT systems operator/tech, entry-level manufacturing/industrial engineer, etc.

Credential(s): Certificate of completion from Penn State University and 2.5CEUs (continuing education credits)

WIOA/ETPL Designation: This course is registered as an eligible WIOA/ETPL program. Companies that are eligible can received tuition assistance.