If you’ve been in the automation space for a while, you’ve probably noticed something big happening. The days when operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) were separate worlds are fading fast. The lines aren’t just blurring—they’re vanishing.
And that’s reshaping what it means to be an automation professional. It’s no longer just about knowing PLCs or SCADA systems. Now, you also need to understand cybersecurity, cloud platforms, and data analytics. This isn’t just about adding skills—it’s about becoming a new kind of professional altogether.
Why This Shift Matters Now
Manufacturing has evolved. Smart factories, industrial IoT, and networked automation systems are no longer futuristic ideas—they’re today’s reality.
Just last month, I worked with a food processing plant that had to rethink its entire automation team. The reason? Their new manufacturing system required people who could handle both traditional OT tasks and IT security protocols. It wasn’t a choice—it was a necessity.
And they’re not alone. This shift is happening everywhere.
The New Skillset for Automation Professionals
To stay ahead, automation professionals need a mix of both OT and IT expertise. Here’s what that looks like:
The OT Side (What’s Always Been Needed):
- PLC programming and troubleshooting
- SCADA system implementation
- Industrial network architecture
- Process control optimization
The IT Side (What’s Now Essential):
- Cybersecurity and network security protocols
- Cloud infrastructure and remote system management
- Data analytics and visualization
- System integration and cross-platform connectivity
Real-World Challenges
I saw this play out firsthand with a manufacturing client. They ran a fully automated production line, but when security vulnerabilities were flagged, their traditional OT team didn’t have the expertise to fix them without disrupting production.That’s where the hybrid professional comes in—someone who understands both worlds and can implement security measures while keeping operations running.How to Adapt and Stay CompetitiveIf you’ve spent years in OT, this shift might feel overwhelming. But I’ve seen plenty of professionals successfully make the transition. Here’s how:
- Start learning cybersecurity basics—especially for industrial environments.
- Get familiar with networking protocols used in smart manufacturing.
- Learn cloud platforms that factories are integrating.
- Understand how data analytics is transforming industrial decision-making.
What’s Working for Professionals Making the Shift
The best way to build these hybrid skills? I’ve seen automation professionals successfully transition by:
- Taking cybersecurity courses designed for industrial applications
- Earning certifications that cover both IT and OT
- Getting hands-on experience with cross-functional projects
- Learning from IT colleagues instead of staying siloed in OT
What Companies Are Looking For
The demand for these hybrid professionals is skyrocketing. Companies don’t just want someone who can keep machines running—they need someone who can:
- Secure automation systems from cyber threats
- Connect IT and OT teams (which often don’t speak the same language)
- Keep operations efficient while ensuring compliance
- Integrate legacy systems with modern cloud-based solutions
Making the Transition
If you’re an OT specialist looking to expand into IT—or an IT professional interested in automation—now is the time to develop these hybrid skills. The demand is there, and the opportunities are only growing.Want to discuss how to navigate this shift? Let’s connect. Whether you’re building your career or assembling a future-ready team, I’d love to hear your perspective.
