The PPG automotive refinish coatings business continues to intensify its dedication to professional training in the industry. While over 16,600 students participated in PPG’s product, distributor and MVP training courses in 2015—more than those trained by any other automotive paint company—PPG foresees an ongoing need to keep its customers and business partners up to date in all matters concerning collision refinish and commercial coatings. To address the challenge, the company will offer an expanded array of classes throughout 2016, with subjects ranging from basic and advanced product line training to custom painting techniques, business management, shop operations and customer service.

“PPG’s commitment to training is the strongest in the industry,” said Randy Cremeans, PPG director of training. “We understand that training is a continuous process; it’s never complete, especially with the ongoing changes we see in this industry. And it’s absolutely critical to our customers’ success. Everyone associated with a PPG collision center or distributorship has access to our training; that training ensures we all stay at the forefront of our industry.”

Courses will be available in 16 state-of-the-art PPG Business Development Centers in the United States and Canada. Specific locations are being upgraded with new equipment and remodeled to accommodate increased demand. PPG trainers will also travel to numerous vocational schools, PPG distributors and other PPG-affiliated locations across North America.

“The refinish industry is ever-changing—and changing faster than ever,” Cremeans added. “Our classes have to reflect that. Technicians need to know how to work with the latest finishes; managers need to know the latest productivity processes and techniques. There’s also increased interest in custom and restoration work, and we’re covering that as well. Training is a large part of our investment in our customers; it’s an investment we’re happy to make.”

PPG intends to increase training opportunities with more courses at more locations. Classes are offered in:

•     Collision refinish—new products, color theory and application of new three- and four-stage finishes, coating systems certification and paint shop productivity training;
•     Commercial coatings—fleet refinishing and repair, protective and marine coatings, commercial truck estimating and commercial performance coatings;
•     Distributor operations;
•     MVP Green Belt and business training; and
•     Custom painting, restoration, airbrushing and pinstriping.