Pittsburgh-based PPG, a paints, coatings and specialty products company, and the PPG Foundation, the company’s primary grant-making organization, have committed to investing $10 million globally through 2030 to support skilled trades initiatives.
Funding will support programs with a focus on advanced manufacturing and coatings applications that equip students with the hands-on training and technical expertise to help them build practical, job-ready and technology-enabled skills. Funding will be provided through partnerships with technical and vocational schools, community colleges and other work force training providers.
“Industries across the globe are facing a growing demand for skilled workers both in essential coatings trades and advanced manufacturing roles that are shaping the future of production,” Malesia Dunn, PPG Foundation and corporate global social responsibility executive director, said. “Our goal is to help people build the skills they need to succeed in those industries today and to adapt as those workplaces continue to evolve.”
The commitment supports skilled trades closely connected to the industries PPG serves such as advanced manufacturing, coatings application and collision repair.
PPG previously committed $2 million to work force training initiatives for 2023-2025.
PPG’s partnerships include Pittsburgh-based Bidwell Training Center’s Chemical Laboratory Technician program. Funding provides training and coating testing equipment for its material science laboratory.