At PPG, we are committed to supporting educational initiatives that help communities meet today’s demand for a skilled workforce by fostering interest in manufacturing and information technology. As such, the PPG Foundation recently provided grants to both the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) and the Painting & Decorating Contractors of America (PCA) to support virtual educational training programs and create awareness about careers in the construction and painting industry.
CSI is a national association of more than 8,000 volunteers, including specifiers, architects, engineers, contractors, facility managers, product representatives, manufacturers and others who are experts in building construction and the materials used therein who are dedicated to improving the communication of construction information. With PPG’s support, CSI will develop a paints and coatings three-level training course and a certification program, targeting women, veterans and millennials, and others interested in the architectural, engineering and construction community. Offering courses that will cover soft skills and professional development, an introduction to the industry, and information on finishes, participants will have the opportunity to gain marketable skills and earn certifications in paints, coatings and finishing content.
PCA is a national trade association dedicated to the success of painting and decorating contractors through ethics, education and excellence. Similarly, PCA will implement a video-based painting apprenticeship program featuring professional painters demonstrating foundational painting skills in order to prepare those who wish to pursue a career in the industry. Targeting underrepresented youths, the program is estimated to provide employment opportunities in the painting industry for up to 700 young people each year.
“These educational partnerships demonstrate PPG’s commitment to advance work readiness skills and to provide opportunities for diverse groups,” said Malesia Dunn, executive director, PPG Foundation and corporate global social responsibility. “We are proud to partner with CSI and PCA to provide participants with employable skills and improve diversity in the construction and painting industries.”
PPG Foundation partners with trade industry groups to support workforce programs
