MONTVALE, NJ – Benjamin Moore announced its Painting Contractor Workforce Development Initiative in partnership with the Painting Contractors Association (PDCA) and Technical Education Assistance for Careers in Homebuilding (TEACH) Construction. Recognizing the need for more skilled workers in the paint industry, Benjamin Moore provided $100,000 in grant funding to PDCA and TEACH Construction to develop a multi-faceted program geared towards educating and preparing the next generation of painters as they enter the workforce. The Painting Contractor Workforce Development Initiative is comprised of a 15-segment Trade Best Practice video series for beginners, as well as an in-depth classroom program designed to offer content on various topics within the painting trade.

“Collaborating with PDCA and TEACH Construction to inspire and develop the next generation of professional painters is a natural alignment for Benjamin Moore as we remain committed to supporting the communities we serve through workforce development and educational programs focusing on trade skills, architecture, interior design and more,” said Craig Bunting, Benjamin Moore Director, Customer Segments. “Through this initiative, our goal is to provide both independent painters and contractor businesses the resources to equip professionals with the expertise and confidence to be successful.”

Created by PDCA with support from Benjamin Moore, the Trade Best Practice video series, which consists of 15 high-level videos, kicks off with an overview of the painting industry and provides introductory content on topics including taping, sanding and rolling, etc. As part of the program, TEACH Construction breaks down each topic into learning modules for those seeking more detailed instruction. TEACH Construction is also engaging vocational and two-year colleges as well as education-focused nonprofits, helping them to utilize their paint and construction curriculum to help develop the next generation of painting professionals.

Professional contractors, educators and employers can access the PDCA Trade Best Practice video series and the TEACH construction curriculum online at www.TEACHconstruction.org/painting to utilize at no cost.

Founded in 1884, the PDCA is an international trade association dedicated to the success of painting and decorating contractors through industry standards, education and improved business practices. Based in Maryland Heights, Missouri, the PDCA serves the needs of the 310,000 entrepreneurs owning painting companies in the United States, Canada and beyond.

Formed out of the Colorado Home Building Academy – which was established by Berkshire Hathaway company Clayton Homes – TEACH Construction is an independent initiative to build a community of learning for competency-based construction education. TEACH stands for Technical Education Assistance for Careers in Homebuilding. The organization is dedicated to educating the future workforce in all aspects of home building, including painting, which is TEACH’s first area of focus.