The automation workforce challenge isn't limited to finding controls engineers. System integrators also need engineers who can eventually become project managers, business developers, department managers and company executives. Control System Integrators Association CEO Adrienne Meyer says this people-development challenge is one of the most common issues integration companies raise with her.

Technical talent alone doesn't create a sustainable leadership pipeline. Future leaders need to learn how to manage customer relationships, mentor employees and oversee complex projects, requiring a different set of skills than those used to program a PLC or commission an automation system. Meyer says leadership development has therefore become a strategic issue for integration firms.

CSIA uses conferences, webinars, networking communities and peer interaction to expose developing leaders to experienced founders, CEOs and executives. These interactions allow engineers and project managers to learn from others' experiences with growth, succession planning, project management, sales and talent development. Meyer expects mentorship, networking and continuous learning to become increasingly important because sustainable growth requires a pipeline of leaders, not merely a pipeline of engineers.