In the field of automation, there is a group of individuals known as "unsung heroes" who possess the core technical knowledge behind workshop production. These are PLC engineers. Becoming a top-tier expert in the PLC field is not as simple as just writing a few lines of code. What you need is not just knowledge, but a deep understanding of the industry and practical experience.
Today, let’s take a look at the five “hardcore” standards that define an admired PLC engineer.
1. In-Depth Understanding of PLC Programming Principles: Without this foundation, don’t even think about starting.
First of all, PLC programming is not just about writing code; it is more important to have a clear and thorough understanding of the underlying programming principles. As the "central nervous system" of industrial automation, PLC operates based on logic operations, bit manipulations, numerical calculations, and other fundamental concepts.
In other words, mastering PLC programming principles is like learning the basic spells in "industrial magic." Without this foundation, even the most advanced skills cannot be applied effectively. Top PLC engineers don’t just "write" code; they understand "why" they write it in a certain way.
2. Mastering Multiple PLC Programming Languages: If you can’t speak the language, how can you navigate the field?
To thrive in the PLC field, knowing just one programming language is obviously not enough. There are various PLC programming languages available on the market, such as Ladder Diagram (LD), Structured Text (ST), Function Block Diagram (FBD), and more. Each has its own unique advantages and applications.
Imagine if you use the wrong language for a project with specific requirements and control needs – the results could be inefficient. A top PLC engineer can switch between programming languages as effortlessly as a "polyglot," ensuring each line of code perfectly fits the project’s needs. This multi-language proficiency acts as a universal key in the "coding world."
3. Excellent Logical Thinking Skills: Without logical skills, don’t blame the code for “misbehaving.”
PLC programming is a logic-intensive job, and the ability to handle complex logical operations and troubleshoot faults is crucial. If your logical thinking ability is lacking, becoming a top engineer is impossible. A small mistake can lead to equipment malfunctions or even halt production. Therefore, top PLC engineers must be able to accurately identify the root cause of problems in a maze of code.
Logical thinking is vital for troubleshooting and debugging programs. If you can break down a problem and find a solution, you’ve mastered the “real skill.” Logical thinking is the “shield” of every PLC engineer.
4. Accumulating Rich Project Experience: Theory without practice is futile.
No matter how much theoretical knowledge you have, without practical project experience, you cannot become an experienced PLC engineer. In real-world projects, you will face various unexpected situations, requiring flexibility and quick strategic adjustments. A PLC engineer’s “field experience” is primarily honed through continuous practice in engineering projects. By participating in diverse projects, you accumulate the experience needed to make optimal decisions in critical moments.
Thus, top engineers are not "born geniuses" but are shaped and refined through countless projects. You need to not only learn to handle routine problems but also develop a sharp eye to detect potential “danger signals.”
5. Mastering Industry-Specific Knowledge: “Building a car behind closed doors” won’t lead to real expertise.
In the world of PLC programming, understanding industry knowledge is equivalent to understanding customer needs. Each industry has unique demands for PLCs, so top PLC engineers are not only “code craftsmen” but also “industry experts.”
For example, in the automotive manufacturing industry, you must understand the specific requirements of welding and assembly. In the food and beverage industry, hygiene and precise measurements are critical. Only by mastering industry-related knowledge can you write code that truly meets the practical needs of the industry, ensuring smooth project execution and optimized production processes. Industry knowledge is your "industry passport."
To become a top-tier PLC engineer, you need more than just technical accumulation. It’s a continual process of improving your way of thinking. From understanding programming principles to mastering multiple languages, developing logical thinking, gaining experience through real projects, and finally delving into industry-specific needs—these five standards are the "required courses" to becoming an expert.
