PPG announced that it is celebrating the success of WorldSkills Lyon 2024, the world’s largest vocational skills competition. PPG was a Gold Sponsor of the event where 1,500 young professionals from almost 70 countries showcase their talents across more than 60 skills categories. PPG also provided more than 290 gallons (1,100 liters) of SEIGNEURIE paints by PPG for the Painting and Decorating category.

“We are thrilled to congratulate this year’s winners in the Painting and Decorating category: Xiaofei Zhang from China, who secured the gold medal; Lena Prinz from Austria, who won silver; and Chun-Chen Lee from Chinese Taipei, who took bronze,” said Malesia Dunn, executive director, PPG Foundation and corporate global social responsibility. “Their hard work and mastery of their craft reflect the power of vocational training and dedication.”

PPG engaged visitors at the event with its interactive “Let’s Paint Your Future” stand highlighting focus areas such as innovation, sustainability, skills improvement, and community engagement. Attendees also visited PPG’s Try-a-Skill area, where they painted murals designed by French artist Camille Fosse using Seigneurie paints.

Dunn also took part in the “Skills Lunch” session, where she spoke on the subject of “Break the Bias.” She emphasized the importance of inclusion and equal access to opportunities, while addressing the need to challenge stereotypes. The discussion aimed to dismantle barriers to job accessibility and promote a more positive, inclusive image of all professions.

The Seigneurie Evolutex Bas Carbone paint provided for the Painting and Decorating competition uses bio-based raw materials that reduce carbon emissions, reflecting PPG’s strong commitment to sustainability. It also ensured that competitors had access to top-tier, low-carbon products that align with the industry’s push toward more sustainable solutions.

“We are extremely proud that PPG partnered with us to support this event with Seigneurie paints,” said Franck Le Roux, executive director of WorldSkills Lyon 2024. “In addition, hundreds of young visitors engaged with the Try-a-Skill area, where they had the opportunity to paint murals, learn about sustainable products, and connect with professionals. PPG’s commitment to sustainability and innovation has truly enhanced the experience for all attendees.”

PPG will also support the European competition, EuroSkills Denmark 2025, which takes place next year in Herning, Denmark. The company’s support of vocational skills training is part of its global commitment to support education and workforce development initiatives that prepare students for careers in the skilled trades. In 2023, PPG and the PPG Foundation announced a $2 million investment to support programs that provide training, curriculum development and career readiness resources for students and educators.