Industrial Automation vs IT Career: Which Pays More in Pune 2026?
One of the most common questions students and engineers ask before starting their automation career is: should I learn Industrial Automation or IT Career? This comprehensive comparison covers the key differences, industry demand, salary implications, and which one you should learn first based on your career goals in India.
Quick Comparison Table
| Parameter | Industrial Automation | IT Career |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Widely used in specific automation applications | Common in complementary automation scenarios |
| Industry Adoption in India | Strong presence in automotive and manufacturing | Strong presence in process and infrastructure |
| Learning Curve | Moderate — structured programming approach | Moderate to high — requires system understanding |
| Job Availability in Pune MIDC | High — many companies actively hiring | High — demand growing in 2026 |
| Average Fresher Salary | ₹3 LPA – ₹5 LPA | ₹3 LPA – ₹5.5 LPA |
| Training Duration at ABC Trainings | 2-3 months | 2-3 months |
Key Differences Explained
Industrial Automation and IT Career are both essential in the industrial automation ecosystem, but they serve different purposes. Understanding these differences is crucial for making the right career decision:
- Architecture: Industrial Automation is designed for one set of industrial control scenarios, while IT Career is optimized for another. Both are used together in most modern factories.
- Programming: Each platform has its own software environment and programming paradigm that engineers must master.
- Industry Application: In Pune's MIDC zones, you will find both Industrial Automation and IT Career systems running side by side in automotive, pharmaceutical, and food processing plants.
- Career Path: Learning Industrial Automation opens doors to certain types of automation roles, while IT Career expertise leads to different specializations.
Which Companies in Pune Use Industrial Automation vs IT Career?
In Pune's industrial landscape:
- Industrial Automation heavy users: Tata Motors, Bajaj Auto, Thermax, Bharat Forge, and many MIDC-based manufacturing units
- IT Career heavy users: Process industries, power plants, water treatment facilities, and infrastructure projects
- Both: Siemens India, ABB, Honeywell, Emerson, Schneider Electric — these MNCs work with both platforms
Which Should You Learn First?
Our recommendation based on 15 years of industry experience:
- If you are a fresher: Start with the one that has more entry-level job openings in your target location. In Pune MIDC, both have strong demand.
- If you are already working: Learn the one your current company or target company uses most.
- If you want maximum flexibility: Learn both at ABC Trainings — our complete automation program covers both platforms with hands-on lab practice.
At ABC Trainings, we teach both Industrial Automation and IT Career in our comprehensive industrial automation program, so you graduate with skills in both platforms and are ready for any automation job in India.
Salary Comparison: Industrial Automation vs IT Career Engineers
Salary ranges are similar for both specializations in India:
| Experience | Industrial Automation Specialist Salary | IT Career Specialist Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Fresher | ₹2.5 – ₹4.5 LPA | ₹3 – ₹5 LPA |
| 2-4 years | ₹5 – ₹8 LPA | ₹5 – ₹9 LPA |
| 5+ years | ₹10 – ₹18 LPA | ₹10 – ₹20 LPA |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fee for Industrial Automation vs IT Career?
At ABC Trainings, PLC SCADA and industrial automation courses range from ₹18,000 to ₹45,000 depending on the module and duration. The fee includes hands-on lab access, study materials, mock interviews, and placement assistance.
How long does it take to complete this course?
The typical duration is 2 to 4 months for a complete PLC SCADA program at ABC Trainings. Fast-track weekend batches are also available for working professionals. The course covers both Siemens and Allen-Bradley platforms with real industrial projects.
Does ABC Trainings provide placement for automation courses?
Yes. ABC Trainings has an 85%+ placement rate for industrial automation graduates. We have active partnerships with manufacturing companies in Pune & Maharashtra, MIDC zones across Maharashtra, and automotive OEMs. Placement support includes resume building, mock interviews, and direct company referrals.
Is this course suitable for freshers?
Absolutely. Our PLC SCADA and automation courses are designed for both freshers (diploma/B.Tech in Electrical, Electronics, Instrumentation) and working professionals looking to upskill. We start from basics and progress to advanced industrial applications.
Why Choose ABC Trainings for Industrial Automation?
ABC Trainings is a Government Affiliated, MSME and ISO Certified training institute with branches in Pune (Wagholi, Hadapsar), Aurangabad (Osmanpura, CIDCO), and Sangli. Our industrial automation program is designed by Sunil Wagh, a senior automation expert with 15 years of industry experience in PLC, SCADA, HMI, DCS, and robotics systems.
- 85%+ Placement Rate — Active partnerships with MIDC manufacturers, automotive OEMs, and process industries across Maharashtra
- Hands-on Lab Training — Real Siemens S7-1200/1500, Allen-Bradley CompactLogix, and Delta PLCs available for practice
- Industry Projects — Every student completes 3-5 real industrial automation projects before graduation
- Expert Trainers — All trainers have 8-15 years of hands-on industry experience
- Flexible Batches — Weekday, weekend, and fast-track options for working professionals
- Government Affiliated — MSME certified, ISO certified, recognized institute
Contact ABC Trainings
Ready to start your industrial automation career? Contact us today:
- WhatsApp: +91 7774002496
- Website: https://abctraining.in
- Branches: Pune (Wagholi, Hadapsar) | Aurangabad (Osmanpura, CIDCO) | Sangli
