HOPE – The University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana Workforce & Community Education Department is offering a hands-on Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) 1 course designed to equip participants with the foundational skills needed to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot modern automated industrial systems.
Scheduled for July 21–24, 2026, the four-day course will provide practical training using industry-standard Rockwell Automation/Allen-Bradley ControlLogix hardware and Studio 5000 software. Classes will meet Tuesday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Participants will work directly with PLC training systems featuring the 1769-L36ERM central processing unit, gaining real-world experience with the technologies commonly used in advanced manufacturing environments.
The course combines guided instruction with hands-on exercises to introduce students to the core principles of PLC-based industrial controls. Topics include system architecture, discrete and analog inputs and outputs, programming fundamentals, maintenance procedures, and industrial networking concepts.
Key learning areas include:
PLC fundamentals and control system operation
Discrete and analog input/output configuration
Basic programming instructions and logic development
Forcing, Cross-Referencing, and QuickWatch tools
Understanding Controller Organizer, Tasks, Programs, and Routines
Troubleshooting and maintenance best practices
Introduction to industrial networking and communications
Hands-on programming using Studio 5000 and RSLinx
The course is designed for:
Maintenance technicians
Industrial electricians
Manufacturing operators advancing into technical roles
New automation technicians
Employers seeking to upskill incumbent workers
By the end of the training, participants will have the foundational knowledge and practical experience needed to confidently navigate PLC systems and support automated manufacturing processes.
Tuition for the course is $1,300, and employers may be eligible for significant tuition reimbursement through the Office of Skills Development (OSD).
“Industrial automation continues to drive modern manufacturing, and this course helps prepare workers with the technical skills employers need today,” Akili Moses Israel, Director of Business & Industry Training, said.
To learn more or register, visit https://uahopetexarkana.coursestorm.com/.
For questions or assistance selecting the right class, contact UAHT Workforce & Community Education at 870-722-8102.