What are the skills and competencies required for electrical controls engineers in the digital era?

1 Cyber-physical systems

Cyber-physical systems (CPS) are the backbone of Industry 4.0, as they integrate physical components, such as sensors, actuators, and machines, with digital platforms, such as networks, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence. CPS enable real-time data collection, analysis, and feedback, as well as remote monitoring and control of industrial operations. Electrical controls engineers need to understand how to design, configure, and troubleshoot CPS, as well as how to ensure their reliability, security, and interoperability.

2 Industrial Internet of Things

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is the application of the Internet of Things (IoT) to the industrial sector. It involves connecting devices, machines, and systems across the value chain, from production to logistics to customer service. IIoT enables data-driven decision making, predictive maintenance, quality improvement, and resource optimization. Electrical controls engineers need to be familiar with the various IIoT technologies, protocols, and standards, as well as how to integrate them into existing or new industrial systems.

4 Human-machine interfaces

Human-machine interfaces (HMIs) are the devices that allow humans to interact with machines or systems, such as touch screens, keyboards, or voice commands. HMIs provide information, feedback, and instructions to the users, as well as allow them to adjust settings, parameters, or modes of operation. Electrical controls engineers need to know how to design, develop, and implement user-friendly and intuitive HMIs, as well as how to ensure their functionality, usability, and accessibility.

5 Artificial intelligence and machine learning

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are the fields of computer science that enable machines or systems to learn from data and perform tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as recognition, classification, prediction, or optimization. AI and ML can enhance the performance, efficiency, and quality of industrial processes, as well as enable new capabilities, such as self-learning, self-adaptation, or self-optimization. Electrical controls engineers need to have a basic understanding of the concepts, methods, and applications of AI and ML, as well as how to use them in conjunction with other industrial technologies.

6 Soft skills

Apart from the technical skills and competencies mentioned above, electrical controls engineers also need to develop their soft skills, such as communication, collaboration, problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking. These skills are essential for working effectively in multidisciplinary teams, understanding customer needs and expectations, finding innovative solutions, and adapting to changing requirements and scenarios. Electrical controls engineers need to constantly update their knowledge and skills, as well as embrace lifelong learning and continuous improvement.

7 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?