Currently, the world of industry is constantly evolving due to the rapid technological development that has been experienced in recent years. For this reason, it is essential that producers also adapt and evolve in order to keep up with new trends. One of these trends is the increase in specialist technicians in industrial automation, whose demand has grown in recent years. 

Furthermore, in recent years, the demand for PLC programmers and robots has increased due to the growing use of these technologies in different industries. In this post, we will explore the main advantages of having a qualified expert in industrial automation and the skills needed to succeed in these professions.

Defining the Role: What is a PLC and Robot Programmer?

A PLC (programmable logic controller) is a type of computer that is used to control the operations of machines and equipment in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and food processing. A PLC programmer is responsible for designing, writing, and testing the software programs that control the behavior of the PLC.

On the other hand, robot programmers are responsible for programming robots to perform specific tasks. They work with robotic systems that are used in various industries, such as automotive, aerospace, and healthcare. They create the code that instructs the robot to perform specific actions, such as welding, painting, or assembly.

The Increasing Demand: Statistics and Trends in Hiring

The demand for PLC and robot programmers is increasing rapidly. According to a report by the International Federation of Robotics, the global market for industrial robots is expected to reach $41 billion by 2020. The report also states that the automotive industry is the largest user of industrial robots, followed by the electronics industry.

Furthermore, a report by Burning Glass Technologies found that the demand for skills related to PLC programming has increased by 36% over the past five years. This growth is expected to continue, as more companies adopt automation technology to improve their operations.

Skills and Knowledge: What It Takes to Succeed as a PLC and Robot Programmer

To succeed as a PLC or robot programmer, you need to have a strong foundation in computer programming, including knowledge of programming languages such as C++ and Java. You also need to have a good understanding of electrical engineering, as you will be working with electronic circuits and components.

In addition, you need to have a good understanding of the industry in which you will be working. For example, if you will be programming robots for the automotive industry, you need to have knowledge of the manufacturing processes and assembly lines used in that industry.

Training and Certification: How to Develop Your Expertise

To develop your expertise as a PLC or robot programmer, you can enroll in training programs offered by universities, vocational schools, or private training institutes. These programs teach you the fundamental concepts of PLC and robot programming, as well as provide hands-on experience working with these systems.

You can also obtain certifications in specific areas of PLC and robot programming, such as Allen-Bradley or Siemens PLC programming. These certifications demonstrate your expertise to potential employers and can help you stand out in a competitive job market.

Industry Applications: Examples of Companies and Fields Using PLC and Robots

PLC and robot programming are used in a wide range of industries, from manufacturing to healthcare. For example, the automotive industry uses robots for welding, painting, and assembly, while the healthcare industry uses robots for surgery and patient care.

Some of the companies that use PLC and robot programming include Ford, General Motors, Siemens, and ABB. These companies rely on these technologies to improve their operations, increase efficiency, and reduce costs.

Looking to the Future: Promising Opportunities in Automation

The future of automation looks bright, with more and more industries adopting these technologies to improve their operations. As a result, the demand for professionals with expertise in PLC and robot programming is expected to continue to grow.

In addition, the development of new technologies such as artificial intelligence and the internet of things (IoT) is expected to further increase the demand for automation professional