AkzoNobel is highlighting the importance of career development for decorators following the successful inaugural European Painting Skills Legacy Workshop, which was held in association with the International Association of Painting Contractors (UNIEP).
The prestigious event, which was sponsored by AkzoNobel, brought together 36 trainees and team leaders from across Europe. From 30th May to 1st June, the successful candidates, who were selected by the Painting and Decorating Association (PDA), were taught the latest developments in painting skills at the AkzoNobel studios in Sassenheim, the Netherlands. They took part in four painting workshops, in which they learned about new products and techniques.
Each delegate also got the opportunity to join a colour tutorial at the AkzoNobel Colour Experience Centre and the chance to leave a lasting impression on the local community by transforming a school in the suburbs of Amsterdam.
John Staunton, Customer Marketing Manager at Dulux Trade, which is part of the AkzoNobel group, said: “More than ever, it’s important for decorators to be ahead of their game and this three day workshop was the ideal opportunity for the selected candidates to find out about the latest advancements in their industry. We’ve had very positive feedback from everyone involved in the European Painting Skills Legacy Workshop – it’s been a hugely successful event.”
Darryl Smith, from Stoke-on-Trent College, was one of the lucky trainees who was selected to attend. “It was really beneficial meeting the other candidates from ten different countries and learning about the latest painting techniques and products, especially as I’m just starting out in my career,” said Darryl. “During the trip, we took part in a ‘Reflections’ demonstration at the AkzoNobel Colour Experience Centre where we were taken into a white room and shown how different light and colour can transform the look and feel of a space. I feel like I’ve learnt so much over the three days and it will be an experience I’ll never forget.”
