Everything You Need to Know About PLC Training

PLC training teaches you how to programme and configure Programmable Logic Controllers, which are the industrial computers that control automated machinery and processes in factories, water-treatment plants, power stations, and more. A good PLC course covers programming languages like Ladder Diagram and Structured Text, hardware configuration, fault diagnostics, and real-world project work using industry-standard software such as Siemens TIA Portal.

At EDWartens, the Professional Module runs as a 5-day intensive live course followed by online recorded sessions. This covers PLC programming, SCADA configuration, industrial networking, and hands-on simulation labs. Some providers offer shorter taster courses of 1 to 2 weeks, but these rarely provide enough depth for employers to consider you job-ready. Our intensive format strikes the balance between speed and thoroughness.

No. While a degree in electrical, mechanical, or control engineering is helpful, it is not a requirement. Many of our successful graduates come from backgrounds in electrical installation, maintenance engineering, or even non-engineering disciplines. What matters most is an interest in technology, a willingness to learn, and basic numeracy skills. We start from the fundamentals and build up.

A PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) is the hardware and software that directly controls machines and processes at the field level. SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) is the software layer that sits above the PLC, providing operators with a visual interface to monitor and control the entire system from a central location. Most automation engineers need to be proficient in both, and EDWartens training covers them together.

PLC programming is logical and structured, which many students find more approachable than traditional software development. The most common language, Ladder Diagram, is visual and resembles electrical circuit diagrams. With guided instruction and hands-on practice, most beginners can write functional PLC programmes within the first two weeks of training. The challenge lies in building complexity and learning to troubleshoot real-world faults.

PLCs use five standard languages defined by the IEC 61131-3 international standard: Ladder Diagram (LD), Structured Text (ST), Function Block Diagram (FBD), Instruction List (IL), and Sequential Function Chart (SFC). Ladder Diagram is the most widely used in UK industry, while Structured Text is growing for complex applications. EDWartens courses cover all five, with primary focus on LD and ST.

TIA Portal (Totally Integrated Automation Portal) is Siemens' flagship engineering software for configuring and programming their S7-1200 and S7-1500 PLCs, as well as HMI panels, drives, and networking equipment. It is the most widely used PLC software in Europe and a core skill that employers look for. EDWartens uses TIA Portal extensively throughout its Professional Module.

Graduates of PLC training typically pursue roles such as Junior PLC Programmer, Controls Engineer, Automation Technician, SCADA Engineer, Systems Integrator, or Commissioning Engineer. These roles exist across industries including water treatment, oil and gas, food manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and automotive. Our recruitment partner network actively helps graduates connect with employers looking for trained PLC engineers.

The median salary for a PLC or automation engineer in the UK is approximately £42,000 per year. Entry-level roles start around £28,000 to £35,000, while senior controls engineers and SCADA architects can earn £65,000 to £85,000 or more. Salaries are highest in London, the South East, and in specialist sectors like oil and gas. See our full salary guide for detailed breakdowns by role, region, and industry.

Yes. The UK faces a significant and well-documented engineering skills gap. Industry bodies estimate the country needs to recruit large numbers of additional engineers each year to meet demand. Automation and controls engineering is one of the hardest areas to recruit for, because it requires a combination of electrical knowledge, programming skill, and industrial experience. This shortage means excellent job security and competitive salaries for qualified professionals.

Most EDWartens graduates secure their first automation role within 2 to 4 months of completing training. This depends on factors like your location, willingness to relocate, prior experience, and the quality of your CV and interview preparation. We provide job-placement support including CV reviews, interview coaching, and introductions to our employer partner network.

Yes. EDWartens provides dedicated job-placement support to all graduates. This includes assistance with CV writing, LinkedIn profile optimisation, mock interview preparation, and direct introductions to hiring companies in our recruitment partner network. We also maintain an active jobs board and share relevant vacancies directly with recent graduates.

Yes. Our online training format is designed to accommodate working professionals. While the course is intensive and requires significant time commitment, many students manage it alongside part-time work or by arranging flexible hours with their employer. Some employers are willing to sponsor the training as professional development. Speak to our admissions team about scheduling options.

Yes. EU nationals are welcome to attend both in-person and online training. Since Brexit, EU citizens visiting the UK for short courses of up to 6 months do not typically need a visa under the Standard Visitor route, but you should check the latest UK government guidance for your specific nationality. Our online option also eliminates the need for travel entirely.

Yes. Our online training programme is fully accessible to international students anywhere in the world. You receive the same curriculum, live instructor-led sessions, FactoryIO simulation access, and CPD-accredited certificate as in-person students. We currently have students and graduates from across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia participating in our online programmes.

For short training courses of up to 6 months, most nationalities can enter the UK on a Standard Visitor visa or under the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme. EDWartens is not a licensed Tier 4 student visa sponsor, so we cannot support long-term student visas. We recommend checking the UK government website (gov.uk) for the latest visa requirements based on your nationality.

Yes. EDWartens is part of a global training organisation with operations in India, the UAE, and the United States, alongside the UK. Our UK courses attract students from across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. This international cohort enriches the learning experience and reflects the global nature of the automation industry. Over 30,000 engineers have been trained across all EDWartens locations worldwide.

Yes. All EDWartens UK courses are delivered entirely in English. Course materials, software interfaces, assessments, and instructor-led sessions are all in English. A working proficiency in English is required to follow the technical content and participate in group exercises. If English is not your first language, we recommend a B2 level or higher on the CEFR scale.