Charles Kingsley Akpanowo

From power plants in Nigeria to global industrial automation, Charles Kingsley Akpanowo shares his inspiring journey through EIT’s programs, revealing how cutting-edge technology and commitment are shaping his career in energy and automation.

EIT Student: Advancing Industrial Automation in Nigeria

Charles Kingsley Akpanowo’s career trajectory is a reflection of the transformative power of education, passion, and innovation.

As a Power Plant Operation Specialist at Seplat Energy Plc, Charles’s deep understanding of industrial automation has become a cornerstone of his success in Nigeria’s energy sector. His journey into this field was shaped by his commitment to staying ahead of industry trends and gaining practical skills that directly impact his work.

After discovering the Engineering Institute of Technology (EIT) in 2016, Charles enrolled in a Professional Certificate of Competency in Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and SCADA Systems. His impressive experience with this program led him to pursue further qualifications, eventually earning a Graduate Certificate in Industrial Automation Engineering.

In this interview, Charles discusses the value of his EIT studies, the challenges he overcame, and his vision for the future of industrial automation in Nigeria.

What led you to pursue a Graduate Certificate in Industrial Automation Engineering, and how do you see this qualification advancing your career?

I came across EIT while surfing the internet, searching for an institution that would effectively combine theory and practicality. This was around 2016. After several years of procrastination, I decided to give it a try by enrolling in the professional certificate. I was very impressed with the outcome, which led me to upskill by pursuing the graduate certificate.

How has studying industrial automation through EIT’s online platform been so far? What aspects of the program have you found most engaging or beneficial?

The experience overall has been fantastic. It has helped me acquire new skills, such as MATLAB and using LUCI CHART for engineering design, presentations, and project management. All aspects of the program were interesting, but instrumentation and PLC stood out for me because I interact with these systems regularly in my workplace.

As automation is transforming industries globally, what particular areas within industrial automation are you most excited to explore further?

I am looking forward to exploring smart instruments as they apply to industrial automation engineering.

How do you see industrial automation contributing to the development of industries in Nigeria, and what role do you hope to play in this transformation?

I see industrial automation, particularly in the area of smart grids using smart instruments, as helping to stabilize and positively impact Nigeria’s energy sector, especially in power and oil & gas industries.

With a smart grid, this will lead to voltage stability, improving efficiency from generation and transmission through to distribution and consumption. In the oil and gas sector, automation will enhance safety and surveillance, reducing risks like pipeline vandalization and helping with custody transfer.

With the rapid pace of technological change, how do you stay updated with the latest trends and developments in industrial automation?

I stay updated by subscribing to the ISA newsletter and magazine, following automation product manufacturers like Siemens, Rockwell Automation, ABB, and attending EIT webinars.

What are some of the challenges you’ve encountered while studying industrial automation, and how have you overcome them so far?

Typical challenges I faced included lecture time clashes with work duties, internet fluctuations, and the speed or accent barrier with some lecturers. I overcame these by discussing my schedule with colleagues at work to switch shifts and attend live lectures, spending extra time reviewing lecture notes before classes, and listening to recorded lectures to clarify any doubts after live sessions.

In your opinion, what are the key skills or knowledge areas that someone entering industrial automation should focus on mastering?

Anyone planning to study industrial automation, like any engineering discipline, must have a creative and imaginative mindset. Key areas include mathematics, physics, instrumentation/control, process control, mechanical and electrical/electronics, and communication protocols.

How do you balance your studies in industrial automation with other professional or personal commitments, and what strategies help you stay focused?

I balance my studies by prioritizing weekdays for lectures and study, while reserving weekends for personal commitments and unwinding with family and friends.

Can you describe a real-world project or experience where you applied concepts of industrial automation, and what did you learn from it?

Several experiences come to mind, but one that stands out was an ‘inlet guide vane’ feedback position fault. In turbine operation, this device should be at minimum opening during start-up and shutdown to ensure appropriate airflow, preventing dangerous conditions like surge or stall.

The turbine failed to start due to this fault, as the control system had detected the problem. After thorough troubleshooting, I identified that the issue was a lack of communication between the inlet guide vane actuator and the PLC due to a faulty barrier in the loop. Replacing the barrier restored the signal, and the turbine was ready to start.

For those considering a career in industrial automation, what advice would you give them to help ensure they succeed both academically and in the industry?

My advice for anyone considering a career in industrial automation is patience, perseverance, and commitment. Be inquisitive and always seek knowledge. For beginners, try to get into the right institutions like EIT, where you will be exposed not only to theory but also to what is relevant and applicable in the industry. It’s also important to secure an apprenticeship or internship in an automation-related firm and attend webinars and lectures to stay updated on industry trends.