Industrial Automation and PLC Programming with Structured Text

Modern manufacturing and industrial processes rely on automated systems to run safely and efficiently. Understanding how these systems are designed, wired, and programmed is the first step toward a career in industrial automation and engineering. In this text-based course, you will transition from an absolute beginner to understanding how real-world industrial control systems operate. You will gain a solid conceptual foundation in hardware architecture, industrial networking, and standard programming practices. What you'll learn: - Understand the core architecture and operational cycle of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). - Write and debug industrial control logic using the standardized Structured Text (ST) language. - Configure industrial communication networks and protocols including Modbus and modern OPC UA. - Design basic process control loops and understand the role of SCADA and HMI systems. - Apply safety standards and basic cybersecurity principles for operational technology (OT) environments. - Analyze real-world automation scenarios through detailed written examples and structural walkthroughs. You will start with fundamental terminology and hardware layouts before moving into logical programming structures and network communications. Each module builds on the last with clear explanations and code-based scenarios to reinforce your learning. This course is designed for absolute beginners, aspiring automation engineers, and maintenance technicians with no prior PLC programming experience. Start reading today to build your foundational knowledge in industrial automation.