Mayco Nascimento, Automation Engineer at agap2 Industria, wrote the following opinion article for our LinkedIn page. Read it bellow.

The coordination of projects in the field of instrumentation and automation requires a combination of technical and behavioural competencies, such as resilience, discipline, emotional control and rational decision-making skills. One of the main challenges lies in the coordination and technical support of multidisciplinary teams. In an environment where detail and precision are critical, the coordinator must act as a technical reference, ensuring that specialists have access to the necessary tools, resources and knowledge to solve complex problems in real time.

As an engineer, it is essential to maintain a continuous process of learning and professional development. Technical decisions must be based on data, standards and recognised engineering best practices, as this is what differentiates a successful project from a costly failure. Intuition alone is not sufficient; it is necessary to analyse scenarios, identify critical variables and systematically assess risks.

The management and control of teams and project schedules require rigorous daily monitoring to ensure compliance with established deadlines. In industrial automation projects, a delay in the installation of a sensor or in the configuration of a SCADA system can trigger a domino effect, compromising subsequent project phases. Therefore, adherence to schedules depends on continuous follow-up and effective communication among all stakeholders.

Budget management and cost control represent tasks of high pressure and complexity. In a market characterised by price fluctuations and logistical constraints, the coordinator faces the challenge of optimising available resources, avoiding waste and ensuring that the procurement of materials and services remains aligned with the approved budget.

This control is crucial to guarantee that, during the FAT (Factory Acceptance Test) and commissioning phases, all systems are fully prepared for operation.

In summary, delivering an automation project on time and within budget requires a comprehensive strategic vision. The coordinator acts as the link between technical specifications and their operational implementation. By mastering both people leadership and the rigorous control of data, costs and schedules, this professional ensures that technological innovation is effectively translated into operational efficiency and sustainable results for the organisation.

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