Automation in Action - Detroit
2026-07-29 12:00 (America/Detroit) | Union Assembly, 2131 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI, 48201, United States
Join us in Detroit for an engaging afternoon of industry insights, networking, and a classic ballpark experience. This Automation in Action event brings together professionals for meaningful discussion and a relaxed, social setting.
Event Overview
We’ll kick off the day at Union Assembly, located in the heart of downtown Detroit, where guests will enjoy lunch, drinks, and a focused technical session featuring Siemens Drives. This event will highlight Siemens solutions and provide valuable insights into their latest drive technologies and applications.
Agenda Highlights

12:00 PM – Arrival, lunch and drinks provided
Technical Discussion – Siemens Drives, applications, and solutions
1:10 PM – Detroit Tigers game

Following lunch, attendees will take a short group walk to the stadium. Digital tickets will be distributed at Union Assembly prior to departure.
Location
Union Assembly
2131 Woodward Ave
Detroit, MI 48201
https://www.unionassembly.com
Why Attend?

Connect with industry peers and experts
Gain insights into Siemens drive technology
Enjoy great food, drinks, and a memorable team experience
Attend a Detroit Tigers game

SIMATIC Motion Control 2 - TIA Portal ($3,000)
2026-07-30 08:30 - 2026-07-31 16:30 (America/Chicago) | Nashville, TN Branch – GCG, 1854 Air Lane, Dr, Suite 20, Nashville, TN, 37210, United States
Using the motion control functions of the SIMATIC S7-1500 technology CPU, the learner will be able to extend applications with absolute synchronous axes or camming. In this technology course, attendees learn step by step the benefits and use of these functions. After learning each step, attendees will deepen their knowledge through hands-on programming.
Topics:

Overview of S7-1500T Technology CPU
Absolute and relative gearing
Strategies for synchronization and desynchronization
Cam disc creation using the graphical cam editor and during runtime
Kinematic functions configuration and control
Interplay between Motion Control and Safety Integrated
Cam disc creation using libraries
Practical exercises on training devices with SIMATIC S7-1500T and SINAMICS drives

Prerequisite: SIMATIC Motion Control 1 – TIA Portal
Course Length & Time: Two days. 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Cost: $3,000
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Siemens HMI with WinCC Unified ($1,600)
2026-08-04 08:30 - 2026-08-05 16:30 (America/Chicago) | Appleton, WI Branch – GCG, 1049 N Lynndale Dr, Appleton, WI, 54914, United States
This two-day course will provide student the skills necessary to develop and maintain applications with the Siemens TIA Portal WinCC Unified Software.
Topics:
• WinCC Unified HMI System Overview
• Siemens HMI Panel Overview
• Project Creation
• Communication Setup
• Graphics Design
• Library Utilization
• Alarm System
• Tag Logging
• Recipe Management
• User Administration
• Scripting
• Cross Reference
• Multi-Language Setup
• Project Transfer
• TIA Portal Step 7 Integration
Prerequisite: None
Course Length & Time: Two days. 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Cost: $1,600
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Introduction to Siemens TIA Portal PLC/HMI (FREE)
2026-08-11 09:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | St. Louis, MO Branch – GCG, 675 Spirit Valley Central Dr., Chesterfield, MO, 63005, United States
Join this comprehensive workshop for an in-depth exploration of Siemens PLC and HMI solutions. Engage in practical, guided exercises utilizing TIA Portal STEP 7 and WinCC Unified software, enhanced with demonstration hardware to solidify your understanding and application skills.

S7-1200/1500 Automation System Overview: Gain detailed insights into Siemens’ advanced PLC systems.
TIA Portal Programming Environment: Discover the intuitive and powerful environment for programming Siemens PLCs.
Integrate Siemens Unified Comfort Panel: Learn seamless integration methods to create intuitive and efficient interfaces.
Experience the Benefits of a Totally Integrated Automation System: Realize how an integrated approach enhances efficiency and performance.

Prerequisite: None
Format:

Presentation and Hands-On
Interactive demonstrations with actual hardware

Course Length & Time: One day. 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Cost: Free
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Introduction to Siemens TIA Portal PLC/HMI (FREE)
2026-08-12 09:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | Kansas City, MO Branch – GCG, 15335 W. 95th St., Lenexa, KS, 66219, United States

TIA Portal 3-Day Programming Workshop ($2,400)
2026-08-18 08:30 - 2026-08-20 16:30 (America/Detroit) | Detroit, MI Branch – GCG, 2119 Austin Ave., Rochester Hills, MI, 48309, United States
This 3-Day Siemens TIA Portal Programming workshop is tailored for someone who installs, maintains, and programs automation systems. This is a programming based workshop which means basic PLC programming knowledge is required for attendance.
Topics:

Siemens Product Family Overview
TIA Portal Family Overview
PLC Programming Basics
HMI Programming Basics
Data Blocks and Memory
Introduction to Networks
Configuration of Distributed I/O
Configuration and Programming of Systems Diagnostics and Alarming
How to use Libraries and Archive Your Project Data

This 3-Day workshop is taught using S7-1500 Hardware on a workstation (1 student per workstation.) Computers provided by GCG.
Participants will learn about the SIMATIC hardware, how to configure it and program it from a “clean sheet.” They will also learn to use built-in diagnostic tools to troubleshoot both their code and hardware. Additionally, attendees will learn how to configure and troubleshoot networked devices such as distributed I/O and HMI’s. The course format is a combination of instructions and hands-on exercises allowing students to practice programming in the “TIA Portal” programming environment.
Prerequisite: None
Course Length & Time: Three days. 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Cost: $2,400
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Panel Building Series (FREE)
2026-08-18 09:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Cleveland, OH Branch – GCG, 6950 Engle Road Suite XX, Middleburg Heights, OH, 44130, United States
Panel Builder Series – Determining Short Circuit Current Rating
In this detailed workshop, attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of Short Circuit Current Rating (SCCR) design, essential US electrical standards, and practical methods for accurately determining the SCCR for existing control panels. Explore various sample applications and understand how component selection influences your panel’s SCCR rating.

Introduction to SCCR: Understand basic concepts and their importance in panel safety and compliance.
Steps to Determine SCCR: Learn the systematic approach to accurately assessing SCCR ratings.
Sample Applications: Review practical examples illustrating real-world SCCR determination.
Hands-on Exercises: Apply what you’ve learned with interactive practice sessions.

Prerequisite: None
Format:

Presentation

Course Length & Time: One day. 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Cost: Free
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SIRIUS ACT Profinet (FREE)
2026-08-18 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | St. Louis, MO Branch – GCG, 675 Spirit Valley Central Dr., Chesterfield, MO, 63005, United States
SIRIUS ACT pilot device system provides a new way to save both time and money for your industrial control panels. A system consists of one interface module and is expandable with up to 20 terminal modules via a simple ribbon cable connection. This lunch & learn will introduce you to the financial and installation benefits by using the SIRIUS ACT PN system. The attendees will learn how to assemble, test and configure a SIRIUS ACT PN system using TIA Portal software.
System Overview Topics:

Hardware Components
Onboard Diagnostics
Module Replacement
Cost Analysis vs Hard Wired Solution

Hands-On Topics:

How to assemble a system
How to test the system without a PLC
Add a SIRIUS ACT PN Station
Add a SIRUIS ACT PN Station (Using Auto Detect)
Create PLC Logic
Test Configuration
Configuring in a TIA Portal Project
Diagnosing errors using TIA Portal

Prerequisite: None
Format:

Presentation and Hands-On
Interactive demonstrations with actual hardware

Course Length & Time: One day. 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Cost: Free
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TIA Portal Programming 2 ($3,850)
2026-08-31 08:30 - 2026-09-04 16:30 (America/Chicago) | Nashville, TN Branch – GCG, 1854 Air Lane, Dr, Suite 20, Nashville, TN, 37210, United States
This course is the second in a three-part series which increases skills with Siemens SIMATIC TIA Portal. Students will
learn to leverage the power of TIA Portal software with advanced structured programming techniques. A systems
approach to efficiently programming the S7-1500 and S7-1200 PLCs is covered. Integration and connectivity of
PROFINET IO, HMI, and G120 Drive are the central focus of this course. Programming emphasis centers on Ladder
(LAD) and Statement List (STL) logic, with an introduction to Structured Control Language (SCL) and S7-GRAPH. Both direct and indirect addressing are an integral part of the course.
Topics:

Training Devices and Addressing
Hardware Commissioning
Program Design Methods
Jump and Accumulator Functions
Analog value Processing and Arithmetic
FCs, FBs, and Multiple Instances
Complex Data and Addressing
Optimized Block Accesses
HMI Alarm Messages
System Diagnostics and Error Handling
Introduction to SCL
Introduction to S7-GRAPH
Integration and commissioning a Drive with Startdrive

Prerequisite: TIA Portal Programming 1
Course Length & Time: Four and a half days. 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Cost: $3,850
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Siemens S7-1500 Programming with TIA Portal ($2,400)
2026-09-15 08:30 - 2026-09-17 16:30 (America/Chicago) | Appleton, WI Branch – GCG, 1049 N Lynndale Dr, Appleton, WI, 54914, United States
This fast paced three day course assumes the student has a basic knowledge of programming PLCs and focuses on how to use TIA Portal Step 7 Professional software to create a complete PLC system. The focus includes configuration of the Siemens S7-1500 PLC hardware, PROFINET configuration, programming using ladder logic and basic diagnostic functions
Topics:

S7 Family Hardware Overview
TIA Portal Project and Portal Views
Configuring the S7-1500 PLC Hardware
Configuring a PROFINET Network
S7-1500 Addressing & Memory
Using Various Programming Methods (Linear, Partitioned, Structured)
Using Basic Instruction Set (Contacts, Coils, Timers, Counters)
How To Use Function (FC) & Function Block (FB)
Using IEC Functions & Function Blocks
Using Libraries
Using Simatic Automation Tool
Data Block Usage & Data Types
Understanding the Most Used Organization Blocks
Analog Value Processing
Monitoring Logic & Using Watch Tables
Use of Trace
Online Diagnostics & Troubleshooting
Use of PLCSIM Simulation Tool
Using the Integrated Web Server on the PLC
Using a Multi-Instance Function Block (Time Permitting)

Prerequisite: Basic understanding of PLCs
Course Length & Time: Three days. 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Cost: $2,400
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TIA Portal 3-Day Programming Workshop ($2,400)
2026-09-22 08:30 - 2026-09-24 16:30 (America/New_York) | Dayton, OH Branch – GCG, 2400 Technical Drive, Miamisburg, OH, 45342, United States

Panel Building Series (FREE)
2026-09-22 09:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Dayton, OH Branch – GCG, 2400 Technical Drive, Miamisburg, OH, 45342, United States

WinCC Unified Test Drive Hands-On (FREE)
2026-09-22 09:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | Milwaukee, WI Branch – GCG, N114 W18770 Clinton Dr., Germantown, WI, 53022, United States
This seminar will allow you to take the WinCC Unified HMI for a test drive. Explore the features of the new HMI hardware and software in a guided hands-on workshop. Learn directly through guided demonstrations and practical exercises.
Topics Covered:

WinCC HMI Hardware and Software Overview: Familiarize yourself with the latest HMI technology from Siemens.
Screen Development: Learn efficient methods to design user-friendly interfaces.
Alarming: Implement effective alarm management techniques.
JavaScript: Discover powerful scripting capabilities to enhance HMI functionality.
System Diagnostics Control: Master diagnostic tool for better system management.
Jumpstart Your Development: Gain practical skills to accelerate your project timelines.

Prerequisite: None
Format:

Presentation and Hands-On
Interactive demonstrations with actual hardware

Course Length & Time: One day. 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Cost: Free
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SINAMICS S120/G120 Maintenance and Troubleshooting ($3,900)
2026-09-28 08:30 - 2026-10-01 16:30 (America/New_York) | Dayton, OH Branch – GCG, 2400 Technical Drive, Miamisburg, OH, 45342, United States
This course is for SIMATIC S7-1500 and S7-1200 PLC users who are involved with developing or sustaining automation systems and their application programs.
This course provides maintenance level training on Siemens SINAMICS S120 and G120 drive systems. The course includes an overview of AC Drive power structures, system hardware, basic commissioning steps, and basic steps for configuring and troubleshooting. A heavy emphasis is placed on troubleshooting using various methods and test equipment. The use of the Siemens diagnostic and engineering software tool (STARTER) is demonstrated and practiced extensively throughout the week.
Topics:

Safety, PPE, and ESD
Perform Hardware Module Diagnostics
Set up and operate the Drives
Back-up and restore operating program via OP
Utilize STARTER software to Upload, Archive and Restore Drive Project
Troubleshoot a SINAMICS drive system using STARTER application diagnostics
Evaluate Drive System Performance
Replace Defective Hardware

Prerequisite: Basics of AC Drives
Course Length & Time: Four days. 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Cost: $3,900
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Siemens HMI with WinCC Unified ($1,600)
2026-10-06 08:30 - 2026-10-07 16:30 (America/Chicago) | Milwaukee, WI Branch – GCG, N114 W18770 Clinton Dr., Germantown, WI, 53022, United States

Siemens S7-1500 Programming with TIA Portal ($2,400)
2026-10-13 08:30 - 2026-10-15 16:30 (America/Chicago) | St. Louis, MO Branch – GCG, 675 Spirit Valley Central Dr., Chesterfield, MO, 63005, United States

TIA Portal 3-Day Programming Workshop ($2,400)
2026-10-20 08:30 - 2026-10-22 16:30 (America/Detroit) | Grand Rapids, MI Branch – GCG, 2660 Horizon Dr. Suite 130, Grand Rapids, MI, 49546, United States

Siemens Step 7 Classic for Maintenance Personnel
2026-10-28 08:30 - 2026-10-30 16:30 (America/Chicago) | Milwaukee, WI Branch – GCG, N114 W18770 Clinton Dr., Germantown, WI, 53022, United States
This three day course assumes the student has a very basic understanding of PLCs and will introduce students to the Step 7 software package, used to program and maintain the S7-300/400 PLC systems. The class focuses on maintaining & troubleshooting the S7 PLC using Step 7.
Topics:

S7 Family Hardware Overview
S7 Hardware Installation & Maintenance
Remote I/O Installation & Maintenance
Using Simatic Manager
Editing/Adding Symbols to a Project
Overview of PROFIBUS & PROFINET Networks
Using a Variable Table for Troubleshooting
Overview of S7 Addressing
Why Various Programming Methods Are Used (Linear, Partitioned, Structured)
Basics of Organization Blocks
Basics of Functions (FC) & Function Blocks (FB)
Basics of Data Blocks
Monitoring PLC Program Blocks
Comparing Programs
Using Cross Reference, Usage Table & Program Structure Tools
Troubleshooting a S7 PLC Using LEDs
Troubleshooting a S7 PLC Using Step 7
Troubleshooting a S7 PLC Using the Integrated Web Server
How to Force a Value

Prerequisite: Basic understanding of PLCs
Course Length & Time: Three days. 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Cost: $2,400
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TIA Portal Programming 2 ($3,850)
2026-11-09 08:30 - 2026-11-13 16:30 (America/Chicago) | St. Louis, MO Branch – GCG, 675 Spirit Valley Central Dr., Chesterfield, MO, 63005, United States

Siemens S7-1500 Programming with TIA Portal ($2,400)
2026-11-10 08:30 - 2026-11-12 16:30 (America/Chicago) | Milwaukee, WI Branch – GCG, N114 W18770 Clinton Dr., Germantown, WI, 53022, United States

Introduction to Siemens TIA Portal PLC/HMI (FREE)
2026-12-08 09:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | Milwaukee, WI Branch – GCG, N114 W18770 Clinton Dr., Germantown, WI, 53022, United States

Introduction to Siemens TIA Portal PLC/HMI (FREE)
2026-12-09 09:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | Appleton, WI Branch – GCG, 1049 N Lynndale Dr, Appleton, WI, 54914, United States
