PPG Industries has renewed its push to strengthen Europe’s skilled trades pipeline, extending its partnership with WorldSkills Europe for another two years (2026–2027) in a deal centered on training, competition, and workforce development.

 

The agreement keeps PPG firmly embedded in one of Europe’s biggest vocational skills platforms and confirms its role in supporting the Car Painting competition at EuroSkills Düsseldorf 2027, scheduled for September 2027.

 

As part of the renewed partnership, PPG will supply paint, equipment, and technical expertise for the Car Painting category. Staff from its Automotive Refinish training center in nearby Hilden will also support delivery on the ground.

 

The company’s involvement goes beyond sponsorship. PPG and the PPG Foundation have positioned skilled trades education as a strategic priority, linking training initiatives to manufacturing and coatings careers while trying to close Europe’s widening skills gap. 

 

PPG has already been active in international and regional competitions, including Painting and Decorating categories at WorldSkills Lyon 2024 and EuroSkills Herning 2025, alongside multiple national events.

 

“We are delighted to extend our partnership with PPG,” said Ben Blackledge, chair of the board, WorldSkills Europe. 

 

“PPG recognizes the crucial role that skills play in empowering young people in both work and life, and in strengthening Europe’s competitiveness. We are grateful for PPG’s impressive capabilities in advanced manufacturing and coatings applications, which helps ensure that EuroSkills competitions reflect the latest industry standards and remain at the cutting-edge of technology.”

 

PPG says the partnership is also part of a wider global skills investment strategy. In March 2026, the company and its foundation announced plans to invest $10 million globally through 2030 to support vocational training through schools, colleges, training providers, and national skills competitions.

 

“Together with WorldSkills Europe, we are working to elevate the visibility and value of skilled professions, inspire more young people to pursue careers in our industry, and address the growing skills gap across Europe,” said Jérôme Zamblera, PPG vice president, EMEA, Automotive Refinish. 

 

“Through national car painting competitions, collaboration with schools, and initiatives such as donations of the PPG LINQ™ digital ecosystem, including the MOONWALK paint mixing system, we help students gain hands-on experience with the latest technologies. We are excited to help showcase the next generation of talent.”

 

PPG also highlighted its broader community impact, reporting $18.1 million in 2025 contributions supporting more than 400 organizations across nearly 30 countries, with a focus on STEM education and workforce development.