PPG Automotive Refinish has agreed to support Pennsylvania College of Technology in the development of its new paint-mixing room and provide materials and training support on a continuing basis for the Collision Repair Program at the College.
The Strongsville, Ohio-based firm will contribute to the cost of installing the paint-mixing room in the former HON manufacturing facility, which currently is undergoing renovations for conversion to classroom and laboratory space on the College's main campus.
PPG Automotive Refinish also will provide annual on- or off-site technical training and PPG certification for Penn College faculty. The company will permit access to its nationwide network of business development centers for the College to conduct PennSTAR (Pennsylvania Spray Technique Analysis and Research) training of spray-paint technicians.
PPG has agreed to:
- Work with the College to develop a program to provide PPG Blue Level One Refinish Technician Certification status for qualifying Penn College graduates
- Permit Penn College faculty to attend MVP Collision Series courses
- Provide training instructors for the College to conduct classes for students up to four times per year
- Assist and support in the development of the College's refinish-training curriculum
- Attend career days at the school and supply speakers for special events
- Explore ways to apprise students of employment opportunities with PPG Industries, the PPG Platinum Distributor Network and the CertifiedFirst Network Collision Centers in North America
"PPG has been a longtime supporter of our Collision Repair program, and their generosity allows us to take our affiliation to the next level," said Colin W. Williamson, dean of the School of Transportation Technology. "Students will be exposed to the very latest in paint technology and products, taught by faculty who have received the latest training. Of primary importance to future employers will be the paint certifications our students will receive, thanks to PPG."
"As a collision repair instructor for the past 18 years and a working technician for 15 years before that, I have enjoyed PPG's unwavering support," said Alfred M. Thomas II, associate professor and department head for Collision Repair at Penn College. "Their commitment to excellence and customer support has contributed greatly to my success and that of their customers."
For more information about Penn College's Collision Repair Programs, call toll-free, (800) 367-9222, or visit on the Web.