PPG Invests $2M in Skilled Trade Career Programs
PPG and the PPG Foundation are investing $2 million through 2025 to support workforce development initiatives that provide training and opportunities for future skilled workers in manufacturing and coatings application, the company announced.
The investment aims to introduce students to career paths within modern industry and provide educational opportunities to pursue fields such as advanced manufacturing, automotive collision repair, automotive refinishing, and painting, the company said.
“We understand the importance of providing students with a hands-on, practical education that arms them with the advanced skills needed for career placements in technical and STEM- related fields,” said Malesia Dunn, executive director, PPG Foundation and corporate global social responsibility. “The PPG Foundation is a long-time supporter of workforce development programs. As we recognize the important contributions of skilled workers during U.S. Manufacturing Month in October, we’re dedicating our commitment to connect students with access to the tools and training needed for a vast range of career possibilities.”
Through existing and new partnerships with local technical schools, community colleges, and organizations PPG and the PPG Foundation will support preparation and training for specialized industry certifications and careers. Current partners include several automotive refinish programs, PPG said.
Partner schools include Rosedale Technical College in Pittsburgh; Delaware Area Career Center in Delaware, Ohio; and Parkway West Career & Tech Center, Oakdale, Pa. With the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF), the PPG Foundation is funding scholarships to train entry-level staff, the company said.
“A recent National Association of Manufacturers survey indicates that a majority of manufacturers identify attracting and retaining a quality workforce as one of their biggest problems,” said Dunn. “The PPG Foundation stands to open the door for future pipelines of talent and invest in programs that support the next generation of workers.”
