EE looking to go into consulting (automation)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on an individual in Edmonton, Alberta, who is pursuing a career in automation and control engineering with aspirations to start a consulting firm after obtaining their Professional Engineer (P.E.) designation. Key insights reveal that entering the consulting field typically requires substantial experience, often 10 to 20 years, to establish credibility and attract clients. The consensus among participants emphasizes the importance of gaining practical experience in the field before launching a consulting business. Additionally, the individual expresses interest in enhancing their qualifications through PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) training.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of automation and control engineering principles
  • Familiarity with PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) programming
  • Knowledge of engineering project management
  • Experience in process control systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Research PLC programming courses and certifications
  • Explore job opportunities in automation and control engineering
  • Study engineering project management best practices
  • Network with established consultants in the automation field
USEFUL FOR

Electrical engineering students, aspiring automation consultants, and professionals seeking to transition into consulting within the automation and control sector.

Dublin
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A bit of background first,
I live in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
I completed my electrician apprenticeship and received my ticket in summer 2012 and I just finished my first year of general engineering will be starting Electrical engineering in september. I am trying to find my direction in the field and currently I feeling interest in automation and control.1. I would really love to start a small consulting firm (after I
receive my P.E) and I am curious as to the difficulty of starting a firm in the field of automation.

2. I am working a summer position in process control working with a couple technician and I mostly help troubleshoot devices, put together engineering packages for equipment that needs to be replaced and update old drawings. So now my question is, as a engineer in this field I feel like I may be doing something else(I don't actually work with engineers). What is the scope of work for an engineer in this field and as a consultant?
 
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Usually when people hire a consultant, they are looking for someone experienced in the field. I think you will have difficulty getting customers for your consulting business if you are fresh out of school. The usual route is for someone to work in their field for a period of time (10 years, 20 years?), then launch a consulting business, using their years of experience as a selling point.
 
Agree, with above. If you have to ask what the scope of work for a consultant in a given field is you are ill prepared to be a consultant in that field. My suggestion would be find a job in that field and reevaluate your options after you have some experience with it.
 
Well yeah when I said after my designation I mean 10 years after I've been in the field... I was looking to apply at a consulting company that advertise positions at my school until I know what I'm doing inside and out

I would also like to learn what I can before hand so if I get the opportunity I may be able to do extra curricular work towards it like maybe plc training
 
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