Sherwin-Williams Jamaica exposes vocational educators to cutting-edge paint technology

Twenty-six teachers from 22 high schools across the island recently received training in partnership with the University of Technology (UTech) School of Technical and Vocational Education (SOTAVE); and the Ministry of Education and Youth (MoEY).

“The two intensive days of technical and practical training was aimed at empowering educators with the latest advancements in paint coatings technology, surface preparation, and to elevate their skills in various aspects of paint technology,” Kenneth Richardson, district manager, Sherwin-Williams during the training at its White Marl factory outside Spanish Town.

The sessions were facilitated by UTech’s Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies and the MoEY’s Industrial Education Unit and included comprehensive sessions on occupational health and safety; painting tips and techniques; surface preparation, and more.

“This partnership marks a significant step in Sherwin-Williams Jamaica’s ongoing commitment to national development through education,” explained Richardson. “These sessions also loop into our proud 25-year history training over 10,500 Jamaicans to set the standard for excellence in paint technology training and development.”

Richardson and Christopher Chambers, who are both National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE)-certified corrosion inspectors, led the training to ensure the high calibre learning experience for all participants.

The sessions were also attended by Owen Wilson, MoEY education officer assigned to Industrial Arts in the technical and vocational area and Richard Samuels, senior lecturer at SOTAVE, UTech.

A Partnership Forged in Excellence
Donnette Donaldson, head of the Industrial Arts Department at Kemps Hill High School in Clarendon said the experience was valuable for her and her students.

“I have gained several new techniques to clean surfaces, apply paints and types of colours. Even though I am a teacher, I have learnt a lot, especially as painting is a part of my curriculum [in Building, Construction and Furniture technology],” Donaldson shared.

The training sessions went beyond traditional paint application techniques, introducing educators to state-of-the-art innovations in paint technology. Among the highlights was the introduction of SuperPaint® with Air Purifying Technology, designed to enhance indoor air quality by reducing volatile organic compounds (VOC) and eliminating unwanted household odours. Another standout was Loxon Self-Cleaning Paint, which extends the life of concrete and masonry by shedding dirt upon contact with water and providing superior UV protection.

The collaboration among Sherwin-Williams Jamaica, UTech, and the Ministry of Education and Youth was a natural progression following the success of a previous training conducted in 2023 for UTech’s School of Technical and Vocational Education. That partnership played a crucial role in the development and delivery of the training content, ensuring that it was aligned with the technical and vocational standards required.

The success of this training programme will be measured by the ripple effect it has on the educators and their students. Teachers are now better equipped to instruct on the latest in paint technology, which will lead to improved student outcomes and greater interest in technical and vocational careers.