AkzoNobel Vehicle Refinishes has opened a new Automotive Training Centre (ATC) dedicated to vehicle refinishing at its Montataire site in northern France. Equipped with a 100 per cent electric paint booth and state-of-the-art equipment, this centre will be able to accommodate 300 trainees per year, training them in the latest techniques and technologies. Local elected officials and customers attended the inauguration event, held at the end of June.
This new facility in France is part of a multi-million-euro investment program designed to expand and modernise AkzoNobel's network of automotive training centres, which includes more than 40 sites worldwide.
The Montataire training centre features the latest-generation equipment, including a heat recovery system that reduces energy consumption. This investment illustrates AkzoNobel's continued commitment to reducing carbon emissions across its entire value chain by 2030.
Ignacio Román Navarro, business director EMEA, for AkzoNobel’s Vehicle Refinishes business says the sector needs refinishers trained in the latest technologies and innovations.
“As vehicle repair shops transition to more sustainable and digitally enabled operations, training centers like our new facility in Montataire plays a critical role in preparing the next generation of refinishers,” he said.
“By equipping this center with state-of-the-art, all-electric technology, we’re helping our customers stay ahead of regulatory and environmental demands.
“We are also addressing global skills shortages with hands-on training in the latest application and drying methods using ultra-modern equipment and our next generation coating technology. It’s a tangible step in our journey to decarbonize the value chain and accelerate the future of sustainable vehicle refinishing.”
AkzoNobel's training centres offer a wide range of training programs, from application, product, and system training to new digital processes. The focus is on improving quality and productivity while reducing environmental impact.