This PLC communication one-line diagram represents the foundational phase of a large-scale infrastructure modernization. I initiated this process by leading an exhaustive audit of the existing legacy system and strategically grouping remote I/O based on their proximity to potential network switch locations. By calculating physical routing distances within technical limitations for Ethernet connectivity, I developed a conceptual proposal for the network’s future state and directed our construction contractor to translate my vision into the highlighted layout seen here. This artifact serves as a primary roadmap, demonstrating my ability to lead a project from high-level conceptualization into a high-impact, tangible operation. This document represents a pivotal milestone in my career with the launch of a multi-year integration culminating my technical leadership and expertise in building asset reliability, supporting the facility's success for many years to come.
Building upon the strategic roadmap, this phase represents the transition from conceptualization to a detailed technical schematic. I coordinated with our in-house and contract engineers to develop a redundant PRP network topology to ensure maximum system uptime and eliminated single points of failure within the automation backbone. By leading the project team to strategically select high-performance hardware, we have developed a scalable infrastructure that effectively addresses the physical distance constraints and environmental challenges of the facility. This deliverable demonstrates my ability to orchestrate a high-level vision into a precise engineering solution while managing the complex technical details and hardware specifications required to deliver a robust network. This phase exemplifies my leadership in bridging the gap between engineering theory and operational reality, establishing a vision that empowers my team and securing the long-term viability of the company.
To ensure the successful realization of this initiative, I led the development of a $1.8M Capital Appropriation Strategy that balances high-impact technical upgrades with the facility’s broader fiscal priorities. By driving a capital planning approach that aligns with business goals, I architected an investment plan that allows for the systematic deployment of the modernized system without straining operational resources. This strategic approach reflects my leadership in financial stewardship and ability to align technical requirements with organizational objectives. By directing my team to break the implementation into strategic priorities, I established a sustainable investment model that minimizes upfront risk while securing long-term reliability. This framework provides the flexibility to approve the project in stages, ensuring automation integrity is maintained regardless of shifting financial conditions.

Through analysis of the SiTS reliability database, I identified this legacy PLC5 rack as a significant contributor to production loss, exceeding $100,000 annually. This finding became the catalyst for the broader control system modernization initiative.

Following development of the future-state architecture, the legacy PLC5 system was migrated to a modern ControlLogix platform utilizing Ethernet communications. This upgrade will immediately save close to $9,000 / month in losses and act as a template for future expansion.

To support long-term modernization, I had a new network rack installed with the capacity for the future fiber backbone and Ethernet infrastructure. This investment enables continued progress on the integration strategy while minimizing disruption to ongoing operations.
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