Preston Smith
SUWANEE,GA
Summary
Controls Engineer with expertise in programming and software debugging. Proven ability to develop and implement system upgrades efficiently. Strong collaborative skills, excelling in both independent and team environments.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Engineer III
Cintas
Suwanee, United States
07.2022 - Current
- PLC and AGV System Modernization.
- Rewrote and optimized PLC code for Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), significantly improving system performance and reliability.
- Eliminated reliance on proprietary "black box" programming, enhancing system transparency, maintainability, and in-house control.
- Redesigned AGV wiring architecture, boosting system efficiency and reducing troubleshooting time.
- Engineered and integrated an innovative remote-control system for AGV safety, providing enhanced operational control and emergency intervention capabilities.
- SCADA System Modernization
- Successfully migrated and upgraded facility-wide SCADA systems from InduSoft to AVEVA Edge, significantly enhancing operational visibility and control.
- Developed VB scripts to capture and record production data, storing it in Microsoft SQL Server databases (SSMS).
- Partnered with the IT department to successfully plan and execute IP address and VLAN migration, ensuring seamless network integration.
- Led the design, programming, and implementation of a new robot cell. This included FANUC robot pathing and logic, RSLogix 5000 PLC control, and a user-friendly FactoryTalk HMI. Integrated robust safety measures, such as door safety switches, light curtains, and Guardmaster safety relays, ensuring compliance and operational integrity.
Automation Engineer
A&E Engineering, Inc.
Greer, United States
11.2021 - 07.2022
- Designed and developed SCADA HMIs using Ignition
- Supported the development and implementation of critical PLC safety programs utilizing RSLogix 5000
Controls Engineer
Core Molding Technologies
Gaffney, South Carolina
10.2018 - 11.2021
- Spearheaded the design, installation, and programming of an enterprise OEE data analysis system (Vorne).
- Led the migration and reprogramming of existing SLC 500 PLC systems to the RSLogix 5000 platform, enhancing control system capabilities and maintainability.
- Upgraded existing machinery with enhanced safety circuits, improving operational safety and reducing risk
Master Technician
Shaw Industries
Clinton, SC
02.2017 - 10.2018
- Performed advanced troubleshooting and maintenance on industrial automation equipment, including Fanuc robots and their associated control logic programmed in RSLogix 5000 and Siemens S7.
Industrial Electrician
Renfrow Brothers Inc.
01.2014 - 02.2017
- Engineered and executed solo electrical projects for industrial clients, demonstrating strong problem solving and technical expertise.
- Executed precise control wiring of new custom and standard control panels, ensuring adherence to schematics and electrical codes.
- Electrical Project Implementation (Wiring & Conduit)
Junior Programmer
Spectrum Engineering Solutions
05.2012 - 01.2014
- Implemented control wiring and PLC programming for new robotic applications at BMW (Spartanburg, SC) and Mercedes-Benz (Birmingham, AL) manufacturing facilities.
Electrician
Electrical Contractor
08.2004 - 08.2011
- Progressed from electrical helper to Journeyman Electrician and eventually Master Electrician, demonstrating continuous professional growth and expertise.
- Gained comprehensive experience across a range of industrial and commercial electrical projects, performing installations, upgrades, and maintenance.
- Applied advanced knowledge of electrical systems and safety standards on diverse project sites.
Education
Master of Technology - MTech - Management Information Systems and Services
University of Arkansas Grantham
10.2026
Bachelor's degree - Engineering Technology Management
Grantham University
05-2021
Associate's degree - Electronic and Electromechanical Engineering
Spartanburg Community College
01-2018
Skills
- PLC programming
- Robotics integration
- SCADA systems
- Network troubleshooting
- Electrical systems
- Network configuration
- Programming languages
Certification
- ISA Certified Automation Professional (CAP)
- ISA Automation Project management Specialist
- Electrical Contractor License- Restricted
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Engineer III
Cintas
07.2022 - Current
Automation Engineer
A&E Engineering, Inc.
11.2021 - 07.2022
Controls Engineer
Core Molding Technologies
10.2018 - 11.2021
Master Technician
Shaw Industries
02.2017 - 10.2018
Industrial Electrician
Renfrow Brothers Inc.
01.2014 - 02.2017
Junior Programmer
Spectrum Engineering Solutions
05.2012 - 01.2014
Electrician
Electrical Contractor
08.2004 - 08.2011
Master of Technology - MTech - Management Information Systems and Services
University of Arkansas Grantham
Bachelor's degree - Engineering Technology Management
Grantham University
Associate's degree - Electronic and Electromechanical Engineering
Spartanburg Community College