PPG Contributes University \ PPG Funds Projects at Lipetsk State Technical University in Russia
PPG (NYSE:PPG) announced the completion of a project at Lipetsk State Technical University (LSTU) in Russia that provided $38,000 (2.8 million rubles) in scientific equipment for a chemical laboratory renovation. The equipment will be used for student research and training in coatings-related disciplines.
“PPG works with universities around the world because we know the importance of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education for a skilled workforce,” said Olga Kolevatova, PPG country leader, Russia. “We hope that our collaboration with LSTU will be useful for the university and will help young professionals get closer to achieving their professional and scientific ambitions.”
A nitrogen generator, adhesion tester, thickness gauge, and other devices and tools are among the equipment. PPG’s automotive OEM and industrial coatings production facility in Lipetsk will also offer internship opportunities to LSTU students with relevant specializations. This initiative will assist young professionals in gaining practical work experience and receiving additional training in the coatings industry.
Industry and University Collaboration
“This is a winning combination for the university, its students and PPG,” said Sergey Kurbatov, deputy head of administration for the Lipetsk region. “LSTU gets a world-class laboratory and partner, the students can improve their skills and knowledge because of the lab and internships, and PPG gains exposure to potential skilled employees among the students. This collaboration also provides an excellent example of the responsibility of business in shaping the knowledge of our society.”
“We are happy to help LSTU, which is the leading university in the Lipetsk region, train personnel for the developing economy,” said Oleg Valuev, PPG plant manager, Lipetsk. “In our experience, LSTU students demonstrate a high level of professional abilities. By upgrading the laboratory equipment and offering internships, we help prepare them for practical work.”
PPG volunteers recently completed a COLORFUL COMMUNITIES® project at LSTU using PPG’s TIKKURILA® paint to revitalize public spaces. Around 40 gallons (150 liters) of Tikkurila coatings, including Tikkurila Euro Primer and Tikkurila LUJA 7® wall and ceiling paint, were provided by PPG to cover over 4,300 square feet (400 square meters) of surfaces. Murals designed by Lipetsk artist Daniil Bely, whose portfolio includes other high-profile public projects, were painted on several walls by employee volunteers. Bely’s artwork was inspired by material science and chemistry, reminding students of science’s progress and importance to society’s future.
PPG has had a presence in Russia for the past 16 years. The company’s Lipetsk plant, which produces automotive, industrial, protective, and marine coatings, is located in a special economic zone. In addition, the company has two architectural coatings plants in St. Petersburg and an automotive OEM coatings plant in Kolomna.
The Colorful Communities program, PPG’s signature initiative for supporting communities, aims to protect and beautify the neighborhoods where PPG operates around the world. Through the Colorful Communities program, PPG’s committed volunteers contribute their time and PPG paint products to help transform community assets – from painting classrooms, to bringing color to a maternity ward and redesigning a playground. Since 2015, PPG has completed 380 Colorful Communities projects, impacting more than 6.8 million people in 42 countries.
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