The answer isn’t extinction; it’s evolution.
While AI, analytics, and remote operations are reshaping the industrial landscape, skilled engineers remain essential. In fact, their responsibilities are expanding—driven by new technologies, tighter margins, and a global demand for seamless operations.
Let’s explore how automation engineers are adapting, what skills matter most in the age of managed services, and how solutions like Proconex’s Automation Services are helping teams stay ahead of the curve.
The Rise of Managed Services
industrial performance. From 24/7 remote monitoring to cloud-based asset management, companies are shifting toward service-based models that reduce downtime and cost. Why the shift?
- Limited internal resources
- Skills shortages
- Rising complexity of control systems
- Need for continuous optimization
Managed services allow plant managers and OEMs to offload non-core tasks to companies like Proconex while maintaining visibility and control. However, it also raises questions about traditional on-site roles, particularly for automation engineers.
Engineers are now expected to work alongside remote service teams, leverage analytics tools, and ensure that local operations integrate seamlessly with external platforms.
Evolving Roles for Automation Engineers
The role of the automation engineer is not shrinking; it’s becoming more strategic. In the past, the focus was on configuration and maintenance. Today, the expectations go beyond troubleshooting, engineers are now critical stakeholders in transformation initiatives.
Emerging responsibilities include:
- Collaborating with cybersecurity and IT teams
- Interpreting cloud-based data for real-time decision-making
- Orchestrating communication between legacy and smart systems
- Contributing to digital twin modeling and predictive maintenance
According to ResearchAndMarkets.com, the global industrial automation market will surpass $400 billion by 2030, emphasizing that engineers will be pivotal to this growth.
Rather than being replaced by AI, engineers are becoming its stewards; the humans who ensure that automation stays aligned with business objectives.
Key Skills for the Automation Engineer of the Future
To thrive in this new landscape, engineers must expand their skill sets. The future belongs to those who can bridge operational technology (OT) with information technology (IT).
In-demand competencies include:
- Industrial Networking: Engineers must understand Ethernet/IP, PROFINET, and OPC UA for system interoperability.
- Data Analytics: Ability to interpret trends from process historians, SCADA logs, and remote dashboards.
- Cybersecurity Awareness: With OT networks now internet-facing, engineers need to understand access control, patch management, and secure protocols.
- Cloud Literacy: Familiarity with platforms like Azure IoT, AWS Greengrass, or hybrid edge/cloud setups.
- Collaboration: Engineers now work in cross-functional teams including data scientists, IT admins, and third-party providers.
Upskilling isn’t optional; it’s essential.
How Proconex Helps Bridge the Gap
At Proconex, we understand both the legacy systems and the technologies defining the future. That’s why our Automation Solutions are designed to support engineers at every stage of their journey.
Whether you’re managing outdated PLCs or implementing smart control platforms, our team offers:
- Engineering support tailored to your tech stack
- Scalable managed services for remote diagnostics
- Valve, actuator, and instrumentation expertise
- Lifecycle management tools that simplify asset planning
More importantly, we operate as partners, not replacements. Our goal is to amplify your team’s capabilities, reduce fatigue and burnout, and ensure your plant stays optimized, secure, and future-ready.
Explore how our automation experts support control engineering across multiple sectors: Proconex Automation Products
Real-World Value: A Future-Proof Plant
The future of the automation engineer is hands-on, high-impact, and digitally empowered.
A Pennsylvania-based food processing plant recently worked with Proconex to overhaul its aging control system. By combining our automated engineering services with on-site expertise, they:
- Reduced system downtime by 37%
- Increased process efficiency by 22%
- Identified cybersecurity gaps before they became compliance issues
Conclusion: The Road Ahead
Managed services are here to stay, but so are automation engineers. Their role is evolving from reactive fixers to proactive strategists who connect machines, data, and outcomes. To stay relevant, engineers must:
- Embrace cloud and analytics tools
- Build cross-disciplinary relationships
- Prioritize continuous learning
And they must do it alongside partners who understand the unique dynamics of their plant.
At Proconex, we don’t replace your team; we empower it. Our solutions are designed to evolve with you, and ensure that your operation stays safe, efficient, and competitive.
Discover Our Automation Solutions