PLC/PLCII Program Overview

After 20 years in retail, I transitioned to an Automation Specialist role at Triad Control Systems. I liked the self-paced format of the program, which also meant I didn't have to wait to take the exams at a certain time. The Studio 5000 simulation version gave me the hands-on experience to hit the ground running. 

Since I had no experience in this field prior to taking this course, I’m now utilizing almost everything I learned, in my daily operations. Huge thanks to my organization for providing me with the flexibility of paid study time each week. Because I was enrolled in this program, they also facilitated hands-on shadowing opportunities with our senior team members which allowed me to learn not only the Allen Bradley System but also the Emerson PLCs and DCS platforms.  

I currently work as a production technician for a pharmaceutical manufacturer. At the time I enrolled in this program, I had just finished my bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, and a lot of the jobs I was applying for were process/controls engineering positions. So, I chose this program to supplement my degree with the required PLC knowledge, after first learning about it from a Reddit comment.  

I enjoyed working with the simulation tools, specifically having the simulated I/O to use with my programs was great. We use Allen Bradley controllers at my current organization, and having the ladder logic programming understanding will come in handy. I’m interested in a career in automation and I’m hoping this certificate will help open new opportunities for me in this industry.   

I currently work as a Midstream Operator in the oil and gas industry, focusing on gas conditioning and water disposal. In my role, I work with automated controls and various PLCs on a daily basis, and I chose this program to further my technical education. Having specific PLC training helps me better understand the technical side of my job and gives me the confidence to perform complex tasks.  

I discovered this program while searching the web for a course that fit my requirements and I realized that the PLC Technician Program at George Brown was a perfect fit. What I liked most was the ability to work a full-time job while learning at my own pace. At 50 years old, continuing my education has been a challenge, but the George Brown representatives have been a huge help. Every time I needed information, there was a friendly, knowledgeable person available to assist me. 

I believe this training will give me a significant advantage in the industry and open doors to new roles. I am currently enrolled in the Automation Technician program and plan to complete my PLC II course as well with George Brown. Setting this goal for myself has been a rewarding challenge as I work toward a better future.

As a Mechanical Engineering Technologist at Stanpac Inc., I support maintenance and production by evaluating, installing, and optimizing machinery. I needed a program that could help me better understand the PLC systems I interact with daily. With the support of my organization, I successfully enrolled into the PLC program.

I was specifically drawn to the self-paced online format and the simulation software provided during the training. Some of the different things I learned during the PLC program will give me a clearer understanding of the flow and function of our existing systems.

Josh Finley is Lead Maintenance Technician at FC industries a CNC manufacturing plant producing automotive parts and construction parts. 

‘Over the past 15 years I had been able to make minor tweaks to timers and maybe change an output if needed but with automation advancing like it is I just wanted a better understanding; to be able to use the program as a troubleshooting tool and to add PLCs to older equipment as necessary.

With this program you will learn to write programs from start to finish and be able to implement them in the field right away. Since completing the PLC program at GBC I've added some PLCs to old school rivet machines, just writing a single input and single output program to make them much safer. In the past They were operated by a foot pedal which meant when the operator kept their foot on the pedal too long the riveter may double hit. I wrote a program with one input from the foot pedal which turned on a timer for ½ second and used a normally closed contact for the dn bit of the timer to that one output. The foot petal is therefore only on for ½ second.  To trigger it again the riveter must remove their foot and re trip the foot switch.

The software and virtual examples were my favorite part of the program. ‘

I selected PLC Technician program because I’m genuinely interested in the field and want to secure a relevant job in the future. What I liked most about the program was how clearly the content and concepts were explained with illustrations, animations, and simulations software. 

 I am now enrolled in the Automation program looking to acquire additional & new skills/knowledge.

As an electrician for over 25 years working both in the private sector as well as the public sector with residential, commercial, industrial, motor control, HVAC controls, solar, generator, Ethernet, fiber optic networks, data centers as well as working in some manufacturing and Class 1, 2, and 3 classifications as they pertain to the National Electrical Code I thought I knew everything that there was to learn in the electrical industry today. I find myself humbled as well as educated after studying and passing the PLC technician I & II course taught through MiraCosta College in Carlsbad California, the PLC technician I & II course was created and made available by the George Brown College in Toronto, Canada. 

I have spoken often with the George Brown support team which make themselves surprisingly available for students. I have called often and not once was I made to feel unwelcomed or embarrassed for calling and asking questions about either the course structure, logging in and out, the download and installation or just asking general PLC programming questions. I have recently decided to take a basic introductory course in C++ at another College and the George Brown support has even answered questions I asked about C++. The George Brown student support team does an excellent job, and the PLC technician course is a treasure trove of knowledge for a CA State general certified electrician like me. If there was a review, I could answer then I would have done the review, but there was not so I decided to write my own review. The PLC technician I & II course gets a 5 star out of 5-star rating in all regards. This course has made me a better electrician.

“I selected the PLC Technician II program because our plant is upgrading its automation, moving from RSLogix 500 to RSLogix/Studio 5000. We are modernizing our automation loops, and the program helped me become an active part of the team. I’m using this new knowledge to grow professionally and be more efficient in my work. 

There are three very positive aspects of the program: time without pressure to advance for those of us working full-time, flexible payment options, and a curriculum with simulation software that combines theory and practice.  

The curriculum and simulation software are very well designed to combine theory with practice and are truly useful for understanding the applications. PLCLogix is an excellent learning tool—it helped me greatly understand the Studio 5000 environment. The knowledge I acquired has allowed me to improve my programming and PLC assembly with greater efficiency and performance.

Thank you to all of you who make our technical development possible. Thank you, George Brown College.” 

Oleksandr Tytarchuk is an Automation Technician with a logistics service provider. ‘As an Automation Engineer in the Ukraine, I believe that the PLC Technician certificate will help me find a job as a PLC technician or industrial electrician in Canada.’

Faheem Akhter is an Industrial Electrician with SLP trades Inc. ‘There we are responsible for electrical systems installation, maintenance and troubleshooting. While I have 7 plus years of international PLC experience I believe, and have received advice, that a PLC credential would help me grow my career.’

‘George Brown College did a great job presenting the program material and I hope to enroll in the Robotics Technician program next.’

Mike Yakasovich currently is a Technical Sales Representative with SFC Energy Canada – a manufacturer of Methanol/Hydrogen Fuel Cells as well as the distributor for Schneider Remote Operations and Field Devices.

I have very little experience with the automation side of our business, having spent my career mostly in industrial instrumentation.  The PLC training I have done was in college was completed almost 20 years ago so I needed to brush up and expand my knowledge – particularly so I can become competent in the SCADA/RTU/PAC aspect of our portfolio. 

I have been eyeing the PLC program for several years now.  This is not the first online-style technical course I have taken - I also completed an Instrumentation course in 2016 and knew at some point I would want to learn more of the Automation side as well.  I don’t believe there are many options for online PLC courses plus as an Ontario resident I wanted to support an academic campus in the area. My favorite sections of the PLC program were Process Control, Data Communications and RTUs and PAC.

My responsibilities have not changed yet however I can speak more confidently about the SCADA portion of our offerings. I am more competent in the terminology of PLCs which will absolutely help in my future technical sales endeavors.  

The program was worth it for my own personal growth and confidence, and I intend on taking PLC Technician II as well. 

Jesse Ohiro is a Production Operator at Magna Seating, assembling car seats for Ford and Lincoln. He selected the PLC II program to ‘advance my studies in PLC programming and other types of programming languages in general.’

‘The program along with the software, quizzes and projects all can be used to practice and simulate programs. This has helped me to understand the course material. 

The skills and knowledge acquired through the program to analyze and troubleshoot various programs and hardware, will eventually help start my career as a programmer or automation technician.’

I chose this program to refresh my knowledge of automation using PLCs. The online course offered by George Brown College provides the flexibility to complete it at your own pace. It combines theory with simulation software, making the concepts easy to understand and apply. The simulator is especially valuable, allowing practical experience without needing to invest in costly PLC training kits.

The program's resource center is also a great asset, enabling students to connect and share experiences. Additionally, the certificates earned upon completion provide industry-recognized validation of the skills gained, supported by George Brown College’s strong reputation.

Building on the knowledge acquired from this program, I’ve now established my own automation company.

Sam Connor is an Electrical Specialist at TC Transcontinental Packaging, a packaging, commercial printing, and specialty media company. ‘I took the PLC Technician II program as I wanted to gain more knowledge and experience with the programming side of PLC’s and expand my knowledge as an Industrial Electrician.  

I liked the programs’ simulation software best; ‘it gave me great hands-on experience with programming PLC and was able to see my program in action.’

 Since completing this program my responsibilities have grown and now include taking charge of a new machine installation and being chosen to complete PLC programming projects. While I wasn’t looking for a promotion this program definitely helped me get my new job as an Electrical Specialist. 

Waseem found  ‘the PLC Technician program detail-oriented, the curriculum material explained clearly and the short video content very engaging. Several people recommended this program at GBC and after completing my certificate, agree that it was a great experience. I have learned a lot and am very proud of my accomplishments.’ 

He hopes the PLC Technician program will help him ‘move into the automation industry and grow his career.’  

As a Maintenance Technician Ken Brooks ensures the automated picking lines are up and running at all times. 

While he already worked on PLCs he felt the PLC Technician program’ deepened his understanding of them and has improved his ability to read the ladder logic, understand how changes are made and how these changes affect the outcomes.’

Ken liked the flexibility of the program; ‘all online, working at my own pace and taking my time to go over material I didn't understand.’

Philip Heywood is a Metal Machinist at a custom fabrication company. Philip registered into the PLC program ‘to expand my expertise into the function and repair of equipment that uses PLCs and to advance my career options.’

‘I work with CNC equipment that uses PLCs to function and the program has helped me troubleshoot issues making my job easier.

As a full-time employee it is difficult to find time to accommodate classes however this program is entirely online and I could work on it at my own pace.’

Miguel Torres is a Collection's Senior Maintenance Worker, in charge of maintaining/repairing City of Riverbank lift stations and SCADA system. The program flexibility allowed him ‘to put in as many hours I could to finish it quickly.’

He hopes the PLC Technician Certificate will help him receive a position reclassification with his current employer. 

Eduardo Tolentino is a Supervisor, Maintenance at Sputtek Inc., a metallurgical coatings company, providing PVD, DLC and Thermal Spray surface treatment coatings services. He registered into the PLC program to expand his PLC knowledge. ‘I've had the opportunity to apply the learning from the program to my current job. Specifically, I've been using it to maintain the PLC program and make changes to the existing program as needed.’ Since completing the program, ‘the maintenance of our PLC programs has been added to my responsibilities.’

David Pimentel is a Maintenance Technician III working for Genie, a Terex brand manufacturer of boom lifts. ‘When searching for PLC training, the George Brown College PLC Technician Certificate offered the best and most affordable training program. Also, I'm getting older and want to stay relevant and with this program I was able to pursue my interest in automated systems.  

In my current role I troubleshoot electrical panels, and this program has widened my understanding of concepts, terminology and reading electrical schematics.  

Upon completion of the PLC program, I did receive a pay raise. 

Tyler Naramore works as a senior Pilot Plant Technician in the Research Department of a mining company where he programs PLCs and ensures instrument data is streaming correctly.

‘I use my PLC programming knowledge regularly in my job and expect my responsibility will change now that I have completed the program.’

“I liked how I was able to move at my own pace from home.’

Amir Sabooniha is a Process Engineer with Heidelberg Materials, an aggregate mine company producing different sand and gravels used in the construction industry. “We use PLC for control and monitoring, vital factors in processing. With this course and the knowledge gained I have better insight and understanding of PLC processes.”

Once John Shahin graduated from the PLC and PLC Technician II programs, he was able to change jobs and is now working in HVAC manufacturing as a licensed electrician. "By graduating from these programs and getting my Certificates I was able to demonstrate my expertise in control systems overall, with a specific emphasis on PLCs."

“I liked the flexibility of studying when it was convenient for me and the progression of content from  a basic introduction and foundation of PLCs to a more complex and advanced study of PLCs.

”These programs can give you a step forward in your career.”

Michael Sovereign has been working for New Gold Inc in Rainy River, Ontario “for five years, first as a Maintenance Electrician and for the past two years as a Process Control Specialist. My responsibilities include administrating, configuring, and maintaining a DeltaV DCS system as well as other plant automation, including industrial communications and PLCs.”

“I wanted to learn more about PLCs because it is in-demand, and I enjoy working with computers. I had looked around for PLC courses before, but the cost was high and in-class learning was not feasible while working full time. When I found the PLC Technician II program at George Brown College, I was thrilled! The cost is reasonable, and the benefit of learning at my own pace while working allowed me to have a work/study/life balance.”

“The PLC Technician II program gave me the skills to troubleshoot PLC programs and an understanding of the concepts of PLCs, which contributed directly to my success in learning and understanding the DCS system at work. It is important to note that I spent considerable time learning the DCS so when position of Process Control Specialist open, my foreman recommended me for the job. “

Robert Simmons, an Industrial Electrician, works at West Fraser- Barwick, a wood products company producing lumber, engineered wood (OSB, LVL, MDF, plywood, particleboard), and other products including pulp, newsprint, wood chips, and renewable energy. He is responsible for the installation, troubleshooting and maintenance of equipment.

‘I needed a better understanding of programming as we use Rockwell RSLogix 5000 software in our plant. I liked the simulation software in the PLC Technician II program; it allowed me to create a program, run it, see the result of the programming and troubleshooting when it was not running properly.’

‘My role has not changed; however, the program did clear up some programming issues especially with regards to a control word in conjunction with masking.’

Now that l have completed the PLC Technician program, l wish to express my appreciation for your follow up when l slowed down during my studies, especially through the COVID epidemic.

Your encouraging words to continue with my PLC education and offering me your assistance when needed meant a lot. Thank you!

The staff at George Brown College really care about the well being, progress, and successful education of its students.

Anil Mathew is a Developmental Electrical Designer at Price Industries, where he is responsible for design and drawings of electrical HVAC units. Anil selected the PLC program at George Brown College for ‘career development. It has definitely increased my confidence to program PLC controllers.’

‘The support team was really helpful and supportive any time I called in for assistance. Overall, I was very happy with the experience.’

Jose Andres Avecillas Andrade is an Industrial Engineer where his responsibilities include preventive and corrective maintenance of AGVs (automated guided vehicles) and automation systems, as well as support for onsite and online PLC’s and robots. 

Jose wanted to ‘learn more about PLCs and delve more deeply into programming them’ especially as works in ‘a highly automated facility. My employer has given me the opportunity contribute to other areas of the company, allowing me to put into practice what I have learned.’

‘I like the way the PLC II content was presented and explained using examples and the simulation software.

V.R. currently works in Transportation Services as a Facilities Engineering Electrician. His responsibilities include electrical repair, maintenance, and installation. ‘In the automation field, I primarily work with DDC controllers and field devices, which are like PLCs but more directed to commercial HVAC systems.’

 He particularly liked ‘the programs flexible delivery format and hopes the training will open up some opportunities in the future.’

John Howe is an Engineering Manager and Electrical Engineer.  He registered into the PLC Technician Certificate “as a refresher program that would fill in some of the gaps in my knowledge.  In my current role I do not install or troubleshoot PLC systems, but I support those who do.  I was very satisfied with this program and can better assist the people I work with.”

The “staff was excellent and quick in helping with my administrative issues. I give full marks to George Brown College and recommend this program to those looking to increase their knowledge of Allen Bradley ControlLogix PLCs.”

Curtis Keen works for a major lumber company and enrolled in the PLC Technician II program “to keep current with all the changes occurring in automation”. Since completing the program he has also enrolled in the Electronics Technician (ET) Certificate program. “After graduating from the ET program I plan on continuing my education with one of the Bachelor of Science options offered through George Brown College."

“George Brown College is by far the best way to continue your education when you have a busy schedule or are working full time.”

Working as an Industrial Electrician within the automotive sector, Kevin, registered into the PLC Technician II program "to enhance his PLC knowledge but also prepare for a position change as a Controls & Automation Specialist."

Kevin was able to apply much of what he learned in the program to his current job. "We have many Siemens PLC's at work, however the GBC program gave me a broader sense of PLC's in the industry. Although I am programming Siemen's PLC's I found that it was fundamentally the same as taught in the GBC program. I work with robotics in my job so the module on Robotics was very informative."

"The 'go at your own pace' was important as it allowed me to work around my full time job. As well the interactive hands on' approach to the programming made it much easier to understand.

Dimitar Zahariev needed to expand his knowledge in the Automation and PLC fields so he chose the George Brown College Certificate programs. Dimitar felt, “They were particularly valuable as they allowed me to study online and on my own pace.”

Working fulltime at the Ferrara Candy Company, Dimitar was able to complete the PLC, PLC Technician II and Automation Technician Certificate programs. ‘Without a doubt the way the information is presented and the great simulation software helped me succeed in the programs. Also the flexibility to take the online exams when I was ready was important given my busy schedule.”

Since completing the programs Dimitar has “secured a position with more responsibility, within the Ferrara Candy, as a Control Engineer.’

Ryan Taylor is an Electrician at Georgia Pacific and oversees the day-to-day production of lumber products. He enrolled in the PLC Technician II Certificate program "as it was a well-balanced program that helped to reinforce theories that I was familiar with and helped me gain knowledge in concepts where I wanted more information. In my current role, I now use SLC 500, PLC5 and RSLogix 5000/studio daily to troubleshoot problems or program improvements."

"While my core responsibilities have not changed I did receive a raise after I received my Certificate."

Phil Boudreau has completed the Electronics and PLC Technician Certificate programs. "Since taking the Electronics program, I have designed a circuit board for a special application required for air conditioning and refrigeration compressor conversions. Many of our customers use PLCs so I also enrolled in the PLC program to expand my skills. While I have not had the opportunity to work with PLCs yet, I am hoping to get my hands on some equipment very soon in order to apply my knowledge and strengthen my skills even further."

"I really liked the simulators as they helped fast-track my understanding of various concepts. I was able to learn and remember technical concepts much more easily when I practiced them using the simulation tools."

"The online forum was also helpful. The discussion forum proved to be a great resource since I was often able to find answers to my questions that were previously asked by other students who had similar challenges with the course content."

Andrew Reid graduated from the PLC Technician Certificate program at George Brown College. He registered into it "to increase his knowledge and understanding of PLCs, as they are used to control fish production at our factory."

"Since taking the program I have used PLCs almost every day. The company has me doing a lot of their PLC program modifications to update our factories. I am the Chief Marine Engineer and am now more involved in the automation side of production rather than just the mechanical work."

Working full time Andrew found ‘the ability to complete the program with no time restrictions’ indispensable.

Tom Troczynski, a Welding Engineering Technologist, took the PLC Technician Certificate program in preparation for a new job that required a broader background in PLCs. Tom found "the program curriculum was comprehensive but (I) particularly liked the modules covering data transfers, process control and signal conditioning."

"While my overall responsibilities have not changed, I am now able to apply my PLC knowledge to help the electricians avoid mistakes."

Mike Varney works in industrial maintenance and has completed the Robotics, Automation and PLC Technician II programs. "With my background in electronics and maintenance these programs are exactly what I need to move into a Controls position."

"The aspect of the programs I liked most was the simulation labs as I can continue to use them throughout my career and keep my skills up to date. In addition I have been compensated for my broader skill set."

"Wish this was out there 20 years ago! Great job George Brown Staff."

David Catataneo is a Project Manager at an electrical services company. He enrolled in the PLC Technician II program “to develop my skills and help ensure I can manage all aspects of any project.” The flexibility of the programs’ format was particularly important to David. “I liked the fact I could study from home as I do not have time to travel to and from school with a young family.”

David has seen immediate benefits from the program. “I have applied my new knowledge of PLCs in various situations, for example, where I have been asked to complete the wiring installation of a project that included PLC Control System components.”

Jordy Risser works as an industrial electrician at High Liner Foods Inc. “I was interested in learning more about PLC's and their role in automation so I enrolled in the George Brown College PLC Technician program on the recommendation of my colleague. Since taking the PLC program I have a better understanding of programming and how PLC’s work, making me a better troubleshooter. I have also been given projects with more responsibility and as a result have received a raise in pay.”

“GBC made it very easy to complete the PLC program; the Support Consultants were just a phone call away and helped with any program related problem. Their service was excellent”

“I would recommend the PLC program to any electrician, in the industrial sector, that wants to learn more and keep up with the growth and change in automation technology.”

Claude Clivet, registered into the PLC and PLC Technician II programs ‘to expand and consolidate [his] knowledge on Allen Bradley PLCs and ladder logic programming and to provide a broader spectrum of service to [his] customers.’ This was particularly relevant to Claude as a Field Service Technician in the food manufacturing sector, where he retrofits, installs, maintains and generally provides technical support for industrial equipment.

Claude uses his ‘new skills on a daily basis and has seen [his] responsibilities change.' But even more dramatically, he has much greater confidence in dealing with different situations at work, eliminating stress and errors on the job. 'I knew the effort [to take the programs] would pay back later on, and I wasn’t wrong. I see my awesome personal results every day at work.’

Patrick Gagnon is currently working in the military as an Avionics and Electrical Technician. He decided to take both the PLC and PLC Technician II programs to refresh his existing skills but also gain more experience with the technology. Planning for his life after he leaves the military, Patrick is ‘sure the online programs will help [him] find new employment elsewhere.’

Scott Foltz, Maintenance Facilitator, is a lead mechanic with a national promotional products manufacturer. His decision to enroll in the PLC Technician program was based on several positive recommendations from maintenance forums and also the flexible format which allowed him to work at his own pace. “I really enjoyed the fact I could grab my laptop and jump on the program when I had a few spare minutes. Working as I do makes it difficult to devote a large block of time to studies.”

“My employer has been very supportive by providing tuition reimbursement and giving me the opportunity to apply my new skills. If you don’t use it you lose it.”

With the support of his employer, New England Controls, Frederic Ekollo enrolled in the online PLC program. As a System Engineer Frederic spends much of his time doing “programming and configuration, using Emerson DeltaV systems control software but wanted to enhance [his] knowledge of PLC’s. PLC and DeltaV programming are similar in many ways and combining both systems is like driving my dream car.”

“At the moment, I am swamped with other projects but in the near future expect to have a project that will allow me to configure logic using my new PLC skills.”

“It has been a pleasure to be part of George Brown College, and I really enjoyed the certificate program I took. It was very interesting. I will definitely recommend it to others.” 

Jason Shell works at McKee Foods as a second shift Lead Electronics Technician. “At my workplace we use the Allen-Bradley RSLogix 5000 PLC hardware and software. I enrolled in the PLC Technician II program to get a better understanding of this technology and improve my performance at work. I am pleased to say that I have been able to apply a lot of what I learned on a daily basis.”

Jason also appreciated the flexibility of the program, allowing him to work on it at his own pace. “I have a busy life and I wouldn’t have been able to complete the program if I had to go on campus to do so.”

“My experience with the staff in the Support Center was always good. I was always able to talk to someone and get my questions answered.

Ralph Young is the Plant Manager at Wyman’s, a major grower and processor of wild blueberries. When the new blueberry packing line was installed Ralph enrolled in the PLC Technician Certificate program at GBC. He felt it ‘would help him learn their new system, minimize downtime and improve efficiencies.’ 

Since completing the PLC program Ralph has re-programmed fillers, replaced modules and boards, re-wired carton metal detectors and designed small PLCs within the automated system. In addition he is better able to troubleshoot and oversee the Electricians, PLC Technicians and contractors.

‘I particularly enjoyed working on the modules covering the overview of PLCs, Input/Output System and Ladder Logic.’

Monica Golding works in the automotive sector where, as an Electrical Apprentice, she maintains and troubleshoots automated equipment. Monica enrolled in the GBC PLC program with the financial support of her employer. As she could not attend a course in a traditional classroom setting, she chose the PLC Technician Certificate ‘because it is offered entirely online’ and had the flexibility she needed to fit into her schedule.

‘The PLC simulator is an excellent tool allowing me to actually write and run programs. PLCs are an integral part of my current job and I now feel more proficient with them.’ 

Terrance Ryan enrolled in the PLC Technician Certificate program to broaden his skills and find new employment opportunities. ‘For many years I have worked in electrical construction, as a journeyman electrician, but now wish to get into electrical maintenance. Knowledge of PLC's is vital for this type of work.”

‘I thoroughly enjoyed the program. The simulation software, PLCLogix, was easy to use. I could set up and debug my own projects. In addition I was fascinated with how Boolean algebra could be used to simplify circuits. Being able to access the program tutors by phone 6 days a week, was extremely helpful.’

‘With government financial assistance, I was able to enroll into the PLC and PLC Technician II programs. I had one year of experience troubleshooting and programming PLCs, both the SLC500 and 5000 series, but felt that really wasn’t enough.  The PLC programs from George Brown College were the best option to increase my knowledge and allowed me to add new skills to my resume. I particularly liked the training I received using the simulation software and found it a huge benefit. The Resource Center was also very helpful whenever I had any questions.’
 
‘I started my new job, as an Electrician at Edson Forest Products, just as I was finishing the last module of the PLC Technician II program. My employer seemed very pleased with my initiative to take the programs and update my skills. I have told others about these programs and think they are a great resource for electrician’s wanting to head into maintenance.’

Eugene Alexeenko is an Electrical Instrumentation Control Technician at the City of Toronto, working at a water treatment facility.

When I first immigrated to Toronto I worked as a C++ programmer before moving to BF Goodrich where I started working on PLC’s. I have always enjoyed programming so I enrolled in PLC Technician II. I know many companies require their employees to have PLC programming skills and a Certificate from George Brown College is solid proof of your skills. In addition, as a CET I am required to upgrade my knowledge on a regular basis. But I would like to continue my education towards a PEng as I was an engineer back home. I believe George Brown College will help me to achieve my goal.

I liked the PLC simulation and I feel very comfortable with its interface. I have been able to apply my learning at work where I create programs for different PLCs to solve process control issues.

Rambhai Parmar works as an Instrument Journeyman at DCM. There he’s responsible for the day-to-day maintenance activities of the instrumentation systems (including PLC and DCS) for DCMs’ customers in the oil and gas sector.

Rambhai enrolled in the PLC Technician II program as he required more advanced PLC training. Since completing the program, Rambhai says, ‘my confidence working with PLC’s has increased.’ He used the Resource Centre discussion forums to get the guidance he needed to complete the course.  Rambhai stated he” found it to be excellent”.

Sumit Khangura enrolled in the PLC Technician program to supplement his Electronics Engineering Technology degree, as it did not provide an in-depth study of PLCs. He explained that his employer, Nav Canada, ‘didn't even ask me about my degree, they wanted to know more about my certificate in PLCs.’

Sumit is an Installation Technician ‘responsible for doing any and all PLC and automation related work.’

He believes that taking the PLC Technician program and learning about PLCs ‘really helped me when interfacing PLCs to scale controllers.’ He cites a specific time at work where there was ‘an issue with bit formatting which I was able to troubleshoot. I determined that the PLC was displaying the wrong weight due to using the wrong datatype; a byte instead of a double was initially used in the ladder logic program.’

There are a number of features of the program that he liked, first, ‘the certificate was self-paced, I could go as fast or as slow as I wanted and did not have to adhere to a professor's schedule and second, the simulation software ‘was an excellent tool to learn programming ladder logic.’ 

Mike Diomartich is a Mechanical Processing Engineer at FlowDynamics Inc., a company delivering food and beverage liquid processing services to the food and beverage industry. Part of Mike’s work mandate is to ‘bring PLC installation, programming and maintenance to the company.’

Mike felt the PLC Technician Certificate program, through George Brown College, ‘offered the best value in terms of price, convenience and providing a complete package of educational tools, including the simulation software.’ He most appreciated that the modules had ‘detailed step-by-step examples and allowed me to work at my own pace.'

Once he has finished the PLC program he will ‘continue training and register into the PLC Technician II program.’

Brett Seely works at Santa Rosa Systems (SRS) as an Electrical Engineer. He designs extendable conveyor systems, specifically by writing and modifying programs, as well as providing backup to the primary programmer.

Brett appreciated the PLC programs' flexible format, stating, "I was able to progress at my own pace which was especially important while working full time. During busy times I could stop the program and during slow times spend more time on it.”

"The simulation software was incredible," Brett continued. "It taught me a great deal with hands on programming which was exactly what I needed to understand the material and learn to the best of my ability.” 

Scott Spooner works as a Senior Electrician at Crucible Steel in Syracuse New York. Scott registered into the PLC Technician II program ‘to stay current with today's technology’.

‘I found this program very challenging especially since I had never enrolled in an online course before. With the help of your staff and your awesome Resource Center I was able to complete this course despite all life distractions (work, relationships, travels, etc.) Thank you for a great experience.' 

Joseph Sallay is an Operations Supervisor at a municipal wastewater treatment facility.  ‘PLCs are used throughout our main treatment plant and auxiliary facilities.  We regularly operate as users on the front end; accessing and controlling the treatment process via SCADA, however I took the program to help me learn more about the back end of the operation, specifically programming and troubleshooting.’

‘The programs flexibility was important to me and allowed me to work on it as I had the time.’

‘I now have a better understanding of how PLCs work.  We are undergoing a large IT upgrade at our facility and I believe the extra knowledge I gained from the program will be useful’