The PPG Industries Foundation recently donated $16,000 to the Youth for Technology Foundation (YTF) in Louisville, Kentucky, to support the organization’s innovative programs that encourage positive youth development for K-12 students in underprivileged areas in the United States, Africa and Latin America. The grant was made on behalf of PPG Industries’  architectural coatings plant in Louisville.

“We’re glad that PPG and its foundation share the same passion for science, mathematics and innovation that YTF has,” said Njideka Harry, president and CEO of YTF. “YTF’s unique programs have positively impacted youth skills development and employment in low-income communities for the past 15 years, and with support from organizations such as PPG, we can continue to solve critical problems through technology.”

The PPG Industries Foundation grant will support the YTF 3D Printing Academy, a weeklong event in Louisville for students that includes seminars on digital literacy, digital security, 3D printing, basic and advanced computer-aided design (CAD) software, 3D scanners, prototyping, and programming basics. Attendees will also participate remotely in collaborative projects with YTF’s 3D Africa programs in Nigeria and Kenya. According to Harry, many professionals in careers related to science, technology, engineering and math use 3D printing as a way to determine if an idea will work at a fraction of the cost and time of creating a traditional prototype. The 3D-printed models enable students to verify and modify scientific theories by providing hands-on, inquiry-based and problem-oriented learning.

“At PPG, we believe it’s crucial to ensure we are equipping today’s youth with the necessary tools and information to help them succeed in engineering and science careers,” said Chris Smith, Louisville plant manager, PPG Architectural Coatings. “Programs such as YTF’s 3D Printing Academy are a great way to educate today’s youth about using the latest technology for innovation.”

The PPG Industries Foundation aims to create brighter, more colorful communities where PPG has a presence in the United States. By investing in educational opportunities, we help grow today’s skilled workforce and develop tomorrow’s innovators in industries related to coatings and specialty materials. Plus, we empower PPG employees to make an impact for causes that are important to them by supporting their volunteer efforts and charitable giving. Learn more at www.ppgcommunities.com.