Clifton Dean Ferguson, PE | Principal

Insight Controls and Automation PLLC
Location: Washington State
Email: dferguson@icautonomy.com
Phone: 503-791-4617

Executive Summary

Insight Controls and Automation PLLC is an engineering consultancy specializing in advanced process control, ground autonomy software, and complex system integration. Founded and operated by a licensed Professional Engineer with over 40 years of cross-functional experience, the firm bridges the gap between high-stakes aerospace software assurance and rugged industrial manufacturing requirements. We optimize industrial assets for maximum uptime, safety, and profitability.

Core Competencies

• Advanced Process Control (APC): Expertise in multi-variable optimization and process modeling (PCA/PLS) to drive efficiency in continuous and batch operations.

• Ground Autonomy & Software Assurance: Specialized development of autonomous propellant loading and command safety systems compliant with DO-178C/DO-278A standards.

• Operational Readiness: Full-lifecycle support for plant startup, commissioning, and ongoing operations to ensure seamless transitions from design to production.

• Strategic Capital Planning: High-level consulting on control system roadmaps and technology lifecycle management.

• Leadership: Former Director of Ground Autonomy, Blue Origin LLC

Technical Arsenal

Category Technologies

Control Systems: Rockwell/Allen-Bradley (RSLogix), Siemens (TIA Portal, WinCC, PCS7), CTI, Red Lion, Ignition, Wonderware

Simulation & Design: Matlab, Simulink, Simscape, SIMIT, AutoCAD, Process Simulation

Data & Infrastructure: SQL Database Management, P&ID Development

Engineering: PE, Chemical Engineering

Proven Performance

• Aerospace: Directed ground autonomy software for the Blue Origin New Glenn heavy-lift rocket, managing critical propellant load sequences and safety-critical simulations.

• Industrial Gases: Served as Principal Controls Engineer for Linde/Messer LLC, managing strategic uptime and advanced control implementation for ASU, CO2, and Helium plants.

• Process Consulting: Delivered multi-variable modeling and simulation for high-energy assets, including lime kilns, recovery boilers, and cement plants.

• Pulp & Paper: Decades of foundational experience in pulping, paper making, and converting, providing a deep understanding of traditional manufacturing constraints.

Certifications & Education

• Registered Professional Engineer (PE): State of Washington, Chemical Engineering

• BS, Chemical Engineering: Oregon State University