SCADA 101: Understanding the Foundation of Utility Automation – Part 1 Fundamentals

New to SCADA? No prior SCADA experience is required.

This course provides a practical introduction to Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems and their essential role in electric utility operations. Designed for beginners, the course starts with the basics and builds an understanding of how SCADA systems collect information, communicate with field equipment, and help utilities monitor and control the electric grid.

Participants will explore SCADA system benefits, core building blocks, system integration, communications technologies and protocols, and the business case for deploying SCADA to improve grid reliability and operational performance. The course will also examine how SCADA is evolving to support emerging applications, including utility analytics, digital twins, and microgrid control. Through real-world examples, presenters will highlight common implementation and maintenance “pain points” and provide practical insight into the technologies and considerations involved in designing and deploying SCADA systems. Interactive discussion and opportunities to share experiences and ask questions will help participants connect the concepts to their own utility environments. 

Click here to view the full course outline (link pdf)

Attendees Will:

• Explain the fundamentals of SCADA systems and their role in modern electric utility automation and reliable grid operations.
• Identify the key building blocks and components of a SCADA system and describe how they work together.
• Compare communication technologies, channel types, and protocols commonly used in SCADA system design.
• Evaluate key considerations, benefits, and common challenges associated with implementing and maintaining SCADA systems.
• Apply SCADA concepts and industry best practices to real-world utility applications, including emerging technologies such as analytics, digital twins, and microgrid control.

By the end of the course, participants will have a solid foundation in SCADA and a clear understanding of how these systems support reliable grid operations.