Control and instrumentation engineer : Training

Control and instrumentation engineers (CI engineers) need to acquire an understanding of the main processes of their organisation. For this reason, initial training is usually in-house and involves an introduction to various operations and training on manufacturing processes, testing, quality standards, assembly and installation. This training is normally conducted by senior engineer colleagues.

Most engineers will be working towards ultimate professional engineer status, generally gained by acquiring experience and training. Professional engineer status is a distinct advantage when applying to many companies and is often a requirement of working for a contract company or working overseas. Professional engineer status equates to gaining either chartered engineer (CEng) or incorporated engineer (IEng) accreditation, awarded by the Engineering Council (ECUK)

Many companies offer training schemes which can lead to the award of this status. Such schemes are accredited by the Institute of Measurement and Control  or the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) , which provide additional training in the form of workshops, lectures and conferences. Membership of such organisations is recommended, and members receive benefits such as access to conferences, workshops and networks and news bulletins. For more information visit the Engineering Council  website.

All CI engineers need to engage in continuing professional development (CPD) in order to move into management or to progress their careers. Various organisations offer advice and information on career development and training opportunities. These include:

• SEMTA: The Sector Skills Council for Science, Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies  
• Cogent: The Sector Skills Council for Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals, Nuclear, Oil and Gas, Petroleum and Polymers  
• Institute of Measurement and Control  

Many companies will offer sponsorship for postgraduate study, part-time PhDs, technical qualifications, MBAs and other qualifications, as well as supporting employee attendance of short courses, workshops and conferences.