Industrial Automation: Intermediate PLC Programming & Integration (Studio 5000)

May 11, 2026 - May 29, 2026
Instructor: Michael Klote

Spots remaining: 15

Course Overview:

Intermediate PLC Programming expands on foundational PLC skills with a focus on advanced programming techniques using Allen Bradley controllers. Participants work with complex ladder logic instructions, timers, counters, data handling, and program control structures while learning strategies for troubleshooting, organizing programs, and integrating basic networking concepts. Hands on applications emphasize building efficient, reliable, and maintainable PLC programs for more advanced industrial automation systems.

This course is part of the Industrial Automation micro-credential series. Participants may complete it as a stand-alone certificate of completion or take all four micro-credentials to earn the Industry 4.0 Certificate in Industrial Automation. A discounted rate is available when enrolling in the full four-course bundle.

Course Format:

This course includes three hours of online coursework completed at the day and time that fits your schedule, followed by an eight-hour, in-person, hands-on learning day in the Industry 4.0 Lab at Mizzou Engineering.

The online coursework will be available starting May 11th and must be completed prior to the in-person learning day.

The in-person learning day in the Industry 4.0 lab will be on May 26th from 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Learning Outcomes:

• Practice with advanced ladder logic instructions and structured programming techniques

• Application of timers, counters, data handling, and program control functions

• Instruction on organizing PLC programs for clarity, scalability, and maintenance

• Introduction to basic networking concepts within Allen Bradley environments

• Troubleshooting methods for diagnosing and resolving intermediate level PLC issues

• Hands on exercises that simulate real industrial automation challenges

Topics:

• Confidence working with more complex PLC programming tasks

• Skills in developing efficient, maintainable ladder logic programs

• Experience applying timers, counters, and data handling instructions effectively

• Improved troubleshooting abilities for mid level automation systems

• Understanding of program structure and basic networking within Allen Bradley platforms

• Practical knowledge that prepares you for advanced PLC and automation coursework

Instructor(s):

Mike Klote, associate teaching professor for both Engineering and Information Technology and Industrial and Systems Engineering at MU College of Engineering. Klote brings over 45 years of mechanical, electrical and mechatronics experience to both programs. He couples his industrial experience with over 35 years of experience teaching industrial technology.

Materials:

All course materials are included with enrollment.

Department:

MU College of Engineering Industrial and Systems Engineering Department

Credit:

Participants who complete this course are eligible for 1.2 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and/or 12 Professional Development Hours (PDHs), which may be applied toward continuing education requirements for licensed engineers.

Audience:

Individuals who have completed foundational PLC training and want to build the competencies needed for higher-level automation positions—such as technicians or maintenance professionals, controls or automation specialists-in-training, skilled trades apprentices, production operators or team leads, and supervisors.

Accommodations

University of Missouri Extension complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. If you have a disability and need accommodations in connection with participation in an educational program or you need materials in an alternate format, please notify your instructor as soon as possible so that necessary arrangements can be made. Language access services, such as interpretation or translation of vital information, will be provided free of charge to limited English proficient individuals upon request. All requests must be made a minimum of 14 days before course start date. MU Extension will attempt to implement late requests but cannot guarantee they will be met.

Cancellations and Refund Requests

Access MU Extension’s Course Cancellation and Refund Policy for details.

Full course description