Industrial Automation: Introduction to PLC Programming

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

Spots remaining: 15

Course Overview:

Introduction to PLC Programming (Studio 5000) offers a practical foundation in programming Allen Bradley programmable logic controllers. Participants learn essential PLC hardware concepts, addressing, wiring, and ladder logic programming techniques. Through real world examples and hands on exercises, the course builds confidence in developing, testing, and troubleshooting programs for common industrial control applications.

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 21st from 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Learning Outcomes:

An introduction to Allen-Bradley PLC hardware, components, and system architecture
Practice with addressing, wiring, and basic I/O configuration
Step-by-step instruction in ladder logic programming using Studio 5000
Guided exercises in developing and testing PLC programs
Troubleshooting strategies for common industrial control scenarios
Real-world examples that connect programming concepts to industrial applications

Topics:

A solid understanding of PLC hardware, addressing, and wiring fundamentals
Confidence in writing and interpreting ladder logic programs
Skills for developing, testing, and troubleshooting PLC applications
Experience working with Allen Bradley controllers and Studio 5000 software
Practical knowledge that translates directly to modern industrial automation environments

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 seeking to build their confidence in developing, testing, and troubleshooting programs for common industrial control applications—such as technicians, maintenance professionals, production team members, skilled trades apprentices, and supervisors or team leads.

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