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1 expert-rated courses covering Structured Text. Compared by rating, price, difficulty, and job relevance so you can pick the right one.
Structured Text is a critical skill for roles in industrial automation, manufacturing engineering, and control systems design. According to Glassdoor, industrial automation engineers with Structured Text skills can earn up to $95,000 per year in the U.S., with demand projected to grow 13% by 2026. Complementary skills like PLC programming, SCADA systems, and process optimization pair well with Structured Text expertise.
Structured Text (ST) is a programming language used for industrial automation and control systems. It is a high-level, object-oriented language that allows for the creation of complex, modular programs. In 2026, Structured Text will remain a key skill for industrial engineers, automation specialists, and control systems developers as demand for smart factories and advanced manufacturing increases. SkillsetCourse.com currently lists 1 expert-rated course on Structured Text, with applications in areas like process control, material handling, and machine monitoring.
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Key Facts About Structured Text
- 1Structured Text is an IEC 61131-3 programming language used for industrial control systems and automation.
- 2Structured Text includes data types like BOOL, INT, REAL, and STRING, as well as structured programming constructs like IF-THEN-ELSE and FOR loops.
- 3Structured Text programs can be exported as source code or compiled directly to PLC or industrial controller hardware.
- 4Major industrial automation vendors like Siemens, Rockwell Automation, and Schneider Electric support Structured Text in their control system platforms.
- 5Structured Text is commonly used to program Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), HMIs, and SCADA systems in manufacturing, energy, and process industries.
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Pro Tips for Learning Structured Text
- #1Start by learning the basic data types, programming constructs, and syntax of Structured Text through online courses or tutorials.
- #2Practice implementing Structured Text programs on a PLC simulator or emulator to gain hands-on experience before working with live industrial hardware.
- #3Familiarize yourself with common Structured Text programming patterns and best practices for industrial automation and control applications.
- #4Obtain vendor-specific Structured Text training and certifications from automation suppliers like Siemens, Rockwell, or Schneider Electric.
Why Learn Structured Text?
- Develop industrial automation and control system programming skills in high demand by manufacturers, process plants, and smart factories.
- Gain expertise in a widely-adopted IEC standard programming language used across multiple industrial control platforms.
- Enhance your value as an industrial engineer, automation specialist, or controls technician by adding Structured Text to your skillset.
- Unlock career opportunities in industries like automotive, pharmaceuticals, energy, and food & beverage that rely heavily on Structured Text-based control systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to learn Structured Text for free?▾
You can find several free online resources to learn Structured Text, including tutorial videos, language syntax guides, and PLC simulation software. Start by reviewing the free 'Structured Text Fundamentals' course on Coursera to grasp the basics of the language before exploring more advanced topics.
Best Structured Text courses for beginners?▾
For beginners, the top-rated 'Advanced Programming With Ladder, FBD, Structured Text' course on Coursera by Packt is an excellent starting point. It covers Structured Text programming concepts, along with ladder logic and function block diagrams, in the context of industrial automation and control systems.
Is Structured Text hard to learn?▾
Structured Text has a moderate learning curve, especially for those new to industrial programming. However, with patience and practice, it can be learned relatively quickly by individuals with backgrounds in computer science, electrical engineering, or automation technology. The structured, object-oriented nature of Structured Text makes it easier to grasp than some other industrial programming languages.
How long to learn Structured Text?▾
The time required to become proficient in Structured Text can vary greatly depending on your prior experience and learning pace. Most beginners can grasp the fundamentals within 40-60 hours of focused study and practice. Mastering advanced Structured Text programming techniques and integrating it with industrial control systems may take several months to a year of continuous learning and hands-on work.
Structured Text salary 2026?▾
According to Glassdoor, the average salary for industrial automation engineers with Structured Text skills in the U.S. is around $95,000 per year as of 2023. With the growing demand for smart factories and advanced manufacturing, Structured Text expertise is projected to command a 13% salary premium by 2026 as companies seek out professionals who can develop and maintain complex industrial control systems.
What are the top industries using Structured Text?▾
Structured Text is widely used across a variety of industrial sectors, including manufacturing, process industries (e.g., chemicals, pharmaceuticals, oil & gas), energy production, and smart infrastructure (e.g., building automation, transportation). Companies in these industries rely on Structured Text to program and control a wide range of automated systems, from packaging lines to power grid management to building HVAC systems.