Is SCADA Training Available Online for Free?

Introduction

The acronym SCADA represents the system product known as Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition. Industrial automation systems function with basic components known as SCADA systems. Manufacturing facilities and power production sites use SCADA systems to supervise and direct industrial operations and oil extraction activities and waste management together with transportation facilities. Your career opportunities within current competitive job markets would improve due to the acquisition of SCADA skills.

Free online SCADA training remains the primary interest of most people who are between the student phase and the job search phase. Students and job seekers will find multiple free learning materials about SCADA available to them. Users access these offerings for free, while they must purchase a ticket for advanced systems, along with features and certifications.

What do you mean by SCADA?

The term SCADA refers to Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition. The monitoring and remote control functions in industries require not a single technology but multiple hardware and software components to work.

Key Components of SCADA:

• Smart devices operating in the current market have capabilities to monitor vital process variables before sending their readings directly to PLCs or controllers.
• The central SCADA system receives process data from sensors, which Remote Terminal Units retrieve.
• A PLC represents the most essential component that makes an automation system operational. The core aspect exists because the PLC serves as the vital component.
• Modbus, together with DNP3 and OPC, represent the communication protocols suitable for data confirmation in industrial automation. 
• Employer operators view system performance through the HMI interface, which provides both performance observation and command functions.

The system enhances operational efficiency along with reducing work delays across industrial settings.

• Real-time supervision of field-based devices
• Preventive alerts for accidents.
• The factors that hinder safety and quality compliance operate at a broad level.
• The central construct in industrial control systems is SCADA.

Free SCADA Training Courses Online

The platforms that offer SCADA training materials provide new users with free resources to learn the fundamental concepts. The following platforms provide excellent implementations among others:

1. Alison

MOOC courses from Allison are freely accessible to students through their platform. The architectural and data flow concepts, along with basic human-machine interfaces, are taught through the SCADA educational program. Absolute beginner students should find utility in this learning tool.

• Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Certificate: Free to learn, paid for a certificate
• Website: www.alison.com

2. YouTube

YouTube hosts an extensive collection of SCADA tutorials at no cost. Channels like 

• Automation Community
• Learn SCADA
• Instrumentation Academy

You will even find SCADA project examples and software setup guides for beginners.

3. Coursera & edX (Audit Mode)

The entries provide educational options for university students through their automation-related SCADA courses. Courses at these institutions grant free access through auditing without awarding certificates.

To name a few,

• Industrial IoT Training Available on Coursera
• Customers can audit the Basics of Industrial Automation Course at Coursera without obtaining any certificates but for free access to lectures.

Note: Payment only applies if you want the certificate.

4. Free Types of SCADA Simulation Software

Certain SCADA tools, such as

• Factory I/O
• Inductive Automation’s Ignition (Trial version)
• SCADA Systems with Open-Source Platforms

Free recreation tools are offered. Such simulation tools provide practical experience, which enables the development of demo projects.

Limitations of Free SCADA Courses

Students can start with free courses, yet there exist numerous severe restrictions associated with them. 

• Hands-on Campus labs 
• No real-time projects
• One cannot find quick paths to their career, although there are no quick fixes for resume improvement.
• No accepted certification in most cases

Students typically use their free SCADA online course completion to start studying official paid courses that provide additional practical information.

Best-Paid SCADA Training Programs

Select professional-level courses if any certified ones are available.

Recommended Paid Platforms:

• SCADA Systems with PLCs by Udemy.
• Users can find numerous automation courses as well as SCADA courses through LinkedIn Learning.
• Inductive University (Explosion) provides free education, which offers certification services at an additional price.
• Real Pars provides access to paid SCADA and industrial automation instructions, which include virtual practice environments.

Usually, the paid courses include

• Forever on Access. 
• Software tools for practice
• Instructor or forum support
• A CV benefits from the inclusion of recognized certificates.

Advantages of SCADA Training in Building Careers

Well, SCADA-trained professionals can step into high-paying positions in automation and control systems. Here are so many bonuses:

1. Varied Career Opportunities

You can apply for roles like

• SCADA Operator
• Automation Engineer
• Control Systems Specialist
• Industrial Electrician
• Instrumentation Engineer

2. In High Demand Around the World

As they move toward digitalization, the industries require SCADA professionals in:

• Power generation
• Water Values
• Oil & gas
• Manufacturing plants
• Smart cities

3. Competitive Salary

Skills in SCADA and automation would get professionals about 25% to 50% higher salaries than technicians without specialized skills.

4. Calculating the Freelance and Telecommuting Job Market

Companies hire SCADA professionals for short-term remote projects. After getting enough experience, you can be freelance and offer SCADA services.

Conclusion

SCADA is a free training over the Internet. You get many valuable beginner-level courses from YouTube, Alison, Coursera, etc. Without spending even a rupee, a student can begin learning.

Indeed, to master SCADA skills and land well-paying jobs in automation, an expensive course should be taken for practical knowledge and certification.