In today's industrial landscape, Programmable Logic controller (PLC) serve as the cornerstone of automation, enabling precise control over machinery and processes. PLC represents a key driver in automation, production & process planning in the manufacturing industry. Many industries of today, including packaging, pharmaceuticals, refineries, mines, machine shops, power plants and food industries use PLC systems for automation of their machinery to produce more, consistently, quickly and efficiently.

Modern PLC systems can be connected to data networks and interfaced with other automation control devices. However, for improvement / modification of the automation system, correct interpretation of the Logics and changes need to be made to the PLC program as and when required.

Keeping this in view, Indian Machine Tool Manufacturers' Association is organizing a 3-day Hands-on training program in PLC Programming & Networking. This training is designed to equip participants with practical skills in both PLC programming and networking, crucial for optimizing operational efficiency and troubleshooting in industrial settings.

This programme will benefit Managers, Engineers & Middle management personnel involved in the functions of Design & Development, R&D, Production, Process planning, Application Engg. Maintenance and other related areas from Machine Tool, Auto & Auto Ancillaries, Packaging, Pharmaceuticals, Food Processing and other General Engineering industries.

Faculties from educational institutes can also participate in the programme. Students who are interested in Industrial Automation can participate to get a hands-on feel.

The programme will be totally practical oriented with hands-on practice. Participants would be encouraged to raise questions and solicit feedback from the expert faculty.

This Program will be conducted by Prof. Ashiv Shah, Mr. Mahendra Dutt Dwivedi, Dr. Dinanath Prasad, and Dr. Alok Vardhan.

Prof. Ashiv Shah is a Professor & Head, TIFAC–CORE in Industrial Automation & Robotics, AKGEC Chief Operating Officer, AKGEC Skills Foundation (ASF). Prof. Ashiv Shah is a distinguished expert in Industrial Automation, with over 35 years of experience spanning engineering education, applied R&D, and industry engagement. As Professor and Head of the TIFAC–Centre of Relevance & Excellence (CORE) in Industrial Automation & Robotics at Ajay Kumar Garg Engineering College (AKGEC), Ghaziabad, he has been at the forefront of building a strong Academic–Industry bridge in automation technologies.

Prof. Shah has pioneered the establishment of state-of-the-art Centres of Excellence at AKGEC in Industrial Robotics, Factory Automation, Mechatronics, IoT, and Smart Manufacturing, with direct industry partnerships. These centres equip students and industry professionals with hands-on training aligned to global automation trends, while also serving as platforms for prototyping, testing, and industrial upskilling. His work has been vital in aligning academic outputs with the evolving needs of Industry 4.0.

Mr. Mahendra Dutt Dwivedi, Automation Trainer & Electrical Systems Specialist, AKGEC Skills Foundation (ASF). Mr. Mahendra Dutt Dwivedi is a dynamic professional and experienced trainer in the domain of Industrial Automation and Electrical Systems, with over 10 years of experience spanning industry operations, technical training, and applied project implementation. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from RGPV Bhopal and a Master’s Degree in Renewable Energy Resources from IIT Roorkee.

Dr. Dinanath Prasad, Automation Engineer & Senior Trainer, AKGEC Skills Foundation (ASF). Dr. Dinanath Prasad is a highly qualified and certified professional in Industrial Automation with over 15 years of combined experience in teaching, industry training, and automation system deployment. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Technocrats Institute of Technology, Bhopal, a Master’s degree in Advanced Power Systems from NIT Hamirpur, and earned his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Delhi Technological University (DTU).

Dr. Alok Vardhan, Automation Engineer & Trainer, AKGEC Skills Foundation (ASF) Assistant Professor, Mechanical Engineering, AKGEC, Ghaziabad. Dr. Alok Vardhan is a dedicated automation professional and educator, with a strong foundation in fluid power systems, mechatronics, and industrial automation technologies. He holds a Ph.D. and M.Tech in Mechanical Engineering from IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, and a B.Tech from UPTU, Lucknow. With over 7 years of experience spanning academia, industry, and automation training, Dr. Vardhan brings a hands-on, application-driven approach to skill development in emerging industrial technologies.