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Short course

PLC and Automation

Close up of an open PLC Cabinet, showing the many components.

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Aug. 26-27 | 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 

The Brain of Automation: PLC Systems Made Easy

This two-day in-person course on Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) is designed to provide participants with a hands-on introduction and deeper understanding of PLC systems, programming and practical applications in industrial automation. The program is structured to cover foundational knowledge, technical skills and real-world applications.

 

Key takeaways

  • Comprehensive understanding of PLC architecture and programming. 
  • Insight into real-world applications and PLC communication protocols. 
  • Confidence in creating, deploying, and maintaining PLC-based systems in various industrial contexts. 

 

 

Registration

This two-day course is $1,300 per person. Lunches are provided.
Deadline: Registration for this course will close Aug. 19.

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Instructors

George Yang, Ph.D.

george-yang-2024George Yang, Ph.D., is a teaching professor in engineering and technology.

In this role, Yang focuses on meeting the needs of regional industries through targeted program offerings and strategic collaborations. He drives continuous improvement of the engineering technology programs with a focus on addressing the evolving needs of regional manufacturers while shaping the direction and offerings to align with industrial demands and emerging technological trends.

Learn more about George

 

Jonathan McPherson

Headshot photo of Jonathan McPhersonJonathan McPherson is the director of K-State's Advanced Manufacturing and Bulk Solids Technology Center. Jonathan comes from industry having spent 11 years designing and commissioning material handling projects as a project engineer and developing business relationships in the markets of performance materials, battery and general industry as an account executive. His project backgrounds include plastics, PVC, paint, lead-acid battery, food and confectionary.

Learn more about Jonathan

 

Mike Walden

Mike Walden-sqMike Walden is the Director of SCADA & Industrial IT at New Frontier Technologies (NFT).  NFT designs, implements and maintains Operational (OT) and Information Technology (IT) systems for industrial organizations. Walden has been working in industrial applications since 1989, specializing in automation and information management systems. He holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Kansas State University.

Learning Objectives

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to programmable logic controllers (PLCs), which includes:

  • Comprehensive understanding of PLC architecture and programming
  • Hands-on experience with programming and troubleshooting
  • Insight into real-world applications and PLC communication protocols
  • Confidence in creating, deploying and maintaining PLC-based systems in various industrial contexts
  • Awareness of major PLC suppliers, HMI suppliers, and software companies and their functionalities 

Who is it intended for?

This workshop is ideal for individuals in the field of automation, control systems, or anyone interested in learning how PLCs drive modern industrial operations.

Format

This is a two-day in-person course held at K-State Olathe, which is located at 22201 W. Innovation Drive, Olathe, KS 66061.

8:30 a.m.

Welcome and Introductions

Jonathan McPherson
9 a.m.

What is a PLC and what is its role?

Jonathan McPherson
9:20 a.m.

Introduction to Industrial Process

George Yang, Ph.D.
Basic electrical circuits, sensors and control devices
10:20 a.m.

Break

10:35 a.m.

Overview of PLC

George Yang, Ph.D.
Basic architecture and functionality, terminology and components
How to wire a PLC
11:35 a.m.

PLC Programming Fundamentals

George Yang, Ph.D.
Ladder logic, functional block diagram and structure text
12:35 p.m.

Lunch

1:20 p.m.

PLC Programming Fundamentals, Cont'd

George Yang, Ph.D.
Timer and counter, input devices and load devices
2:50 p.m.

Break

3:20 p.m.

PLC Programming Fundamentals, Cont'd

George Yang, Ph.D.
Timer and counter, input devices and load devices
4:15 p.m.

Wrap up

George Yang, Ph.D.
Timer and counter, input devices and load devices
4:30 p.m.

Dismiss

8:30 a.m.

Welcome and Re-cap

Jonathan McPherson
9 a.m.

Application

George Yang, Ph.d.
Describe, design, wire, test and troubleshooting
10 a.m.

Break

10:15 a.m.

Case Study

George Yang, Ph.D.
12:15 p.m.

Lunch

1 p.m.

Site Visit to New Frontier Technologies

Drive time
1:30 p.m.

Advancements in Industrial Automation

Mike Walden and Terry Dodson
PLC, HMI, SCADA and communications between PLCs
4 p.m.

Wrap up and Evaluations

Jonathan McPherson and Jaclyn Wolf
4:30 p.m.

Dismiss

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Questions

Contact Jaclyn Wolf at jaclyn14@ksu.edu to obtain discount codes for a group.