Remote Monitoring and Control: The Growing Demand for Techs Who Understand SCADA Systems

Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems have been around since the 1960s, but have come a long way since their inception. These systems, which were originally simple programs that used analog technology, are now powerhouse systems that integrate cloud computing, AI, and machine learning to control operations at water management and treatment facilities, power companies, manufacturing plants, and more. Companies depend on SCADA systems to keep all their machinery operating safely and efficiently with minimal human oversight.

SCADA Systems and Remote Monitoring and Control

Thanks to the internet and human machine interfaces (HMIs), SCADA systems can communicate with human supervisors from anywhere in the world. Humans, by the same token, can monitor and program SCADA systems remotely. Even so, the need for human interference is often minimal and will likely become even more minimal as technology advances.

To understand why SCADA systems matter in remote monitoring and control, it's important to first of all understand how these systems work. SCADA systems can be programmed to monitor a range of tasks according to a predetermined set of parameters. Put simply, these systems control and monitor machinery in accordance with a programmer's instructions. These instructions also include programming that tells the system how to react to certain types of data. In many instances, reactions are automated; a human supervisor does not need to get involved but can view the data the SCADA system reacted to and the reactions it took to the data. In other cases, the SCADA system is programmed to notify a supervisor in the event of certain problems or challenges. The supervisor then decides how the system should proceed and programs it accordingly.

Without a SCADA system, it would be difficult if not impossible for a supervisor to remotely monitor operations at any facility. He or she may receive incomplete data or have to sort through data from multiple sources to find important information. The ability to manage automated processes remotely would be reduced as each machine or device would have to be programmed separately and, in some cases, in person.

Demand for SCADA Technicians is on the Rise

The SCADA market, which was worth just over USD $14 billion in 2023, is expected to be worth over USD $22 billion by 2030 and over USD $39 billion by 2032. Energy companies are now relying on SCADA systems to not only monitor power usage but also for renewable energy integration and grid efficiency management. A growing number of manufacturing plants and oil and gas facilities are integrating SCADA systems into their operations. In both the United States and Canada, the government is even funding SCADA deployment to modernize utility infrastructure. Furthermore, companies in a range of industries are turning to SCADA systems to analyze large quantities of data and predict trends based on this data. Given these facts, it's not surprising that the number of SCADA technicians needed to manage these systems is also growing. Unfortunately, the current shortage of SCADA technicians is impeding companies and industries from using SCADA technology to its fullest potential.

What Skills Does a SCADA Technician Need?

SCADA tech jobs pay well, but technicians need training and an array of skills in order to work with modern SCADA systems. If you want to become a SCADA automation technician, you will need to be able to:

• Program (or reprogram) SCADA systems in line with industry requirements
• Conduct regular and preventative maintenance to keep systems in good working order
• Troubleshoot systems and repair hardware and software issues as needed. In some instances, this can be done remotely. In other cases, you will need to work on-site.
• Upgrade and optimize systems to improve data collection, analysis, product creation, product inspection, and/or other functions
• Integrate new systems into an existing SCADA system
• Train operators and supervisors in handling and managing a SCADA system
• Ensure a SCADA system is operating in compliance with relevant safety standards and compliance requirements

• Monitor a SCADA system to prevent (or deal with) cybersecurity attacks

As SCADA technology advances, it is likely that the need for human supervision will decrease as the system will be able to handle a range of problems, challenges, and events. At the same time, the need for skilled, competent SCADA techs will rise as companies rely more heavily on automation than ever before. Even a small failure or oversight could have drastic consequences as a machine, unlike a human being, can only operate in accordance with its programming instructions.

SCADA Systems And The PLC and Automation Technician Certificate Programs at George Brown College

Both the PLC and Automation Technician training program at George Brown College includes SCADA system training. Some of the skills you'll learn include:

• SCADA system alarm management, including the identification of three types of changes noted by alarms and events, and the ten stages of an alarm management lifecycle
• Security and authentication methodologies
• The ability to define SCADA architecture and elements

• The ability to describe the benefits of SCADA simulation

Working as an automation technician specializing in SCADA systems can be a challenging yet exciting career. Along with good pay and benefits, you'll interact with cutting-edge technology and see how it improves the quality of life of people of all ages and walks of life. Call us at 1-888-553-5333 to speak to one of our Program Consultants about our training program and the many opportunities it can open for you.