You're starting a career in Plant Engineering. What are the most important technologies to master?

1 CAD and simulation software

Computer-aided design (CAD) and simulation software are essential tools for plant engineers, as they allow you to create, modify, and analyze plant layouts, equipment, and processes. CAD and simulation software can help you improve plant efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize risks. You can also use them to test different scenarios, evaluate alternatives, and troubleshoot issues. Some of the most popular CAD and simulation software for plant engineering include AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Plant 3D, Simulink, and Aspen Plus.

2 PLC and SCADA systems

Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems are widely used in plant engineering to control and monitor plant operations. PLCs are devices that execute logic instructions based on input signals from sensors, switches, and other devices. SCADA systems are software applications that collect and display data from PLCs and other sources, such as meters, cameras, and alarms. PLCs and SCADA systems can help you automate plant processes, enhance quality and productivity , and prevent faults and failures. Some of the most common PLC and SCADA systems for plant engineering include Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Schneider, Wonderware, and GE.

3 Data analysis and visualization tools

Data analysis and visualization tools are crucial for plant engineers, as they enable you to extract insights from large and complex data sets generated by plant operations. Data analysis and visualization tools can help you identify patterns, trends, and anomalies, measure performance indicators, and make informed decisions. You can also use them to communicate your findings and recommendations to stakeholders, such as managers, clients, and regulators. Some of the most useful data analysis and visualization tools for plant engineering include Excel, Python, R, MATLAB, Tableau, and Power BI.

4 IoT and cloud computing

Internet of things (IoT) and cloud computing are emerging technologies that have great potential for plant engineering. IoT refers to the network of physical devices, such as sensors, actuators, and cameras, that can communicate and exchange data over the internet. Cloud computing refers to the delivery of computing services, such as storage, processing, and software, over the internet. IoT and cloud computing can help you connect and integrate plant systems, collect and store data, access and deploy applications, and improve plant security and scalability. Some of the most popular IoT and cloud computing platforms for plant engineering include AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, IBM Watson, and Cisco.

5 AI and machine learning

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are advanced technologies that can enhance plant engineering capabilities. AI refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines, such as reasoning, learning, and problem-solving. ML refers to the subset of AI that enables machines to learn from data without explicit programming. AI and ML can help you automate and optimize plant processes, detect and diagnose faults and anomalies, predict and prevent failures, and generate and evaluate solutions. Some of the most widely used AI and ML tools for plant engineering include TensorFlow, Keras, PyTorch, Scikit-learn, and OpenCV.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?