Utilities are rethinking the traditional 24/7 staffing model as workforce shortages, labor costs, and burnout intensify—without compromising reliability or compliance. This session shares proven pathways to unstaffed nights/weekends using a deliberate progression of data quality improvements, automation maturity, alarm rationalization, remote workflows, and risk‑based operating procedures, supported by close coordination between operations and IT. Attendees will also learn how operator training simulators built on calibrated process models and SCADA‑like interfaces can create a safe environment to practice high‑risk scenarios, refine control strategies, and strengthen operator confidence. Together, these case studies show how digital tools can improve operator quality of life while maintaining resilient performance.
