A substantial injection of technology sees a long-running PPG training facility go to the head of the class.
Number five Vestey Drive in Auckland is a significant address for many Kiwi collision repair professionals. As the epicentre of PPG’s skills training in the country, the Auckland Training Centre has played a part in many careers and now it has come in for a total revamp. The major investment is all about continuing PPG’s high level of support for the local industry, while also mirroring what is happening in the wider marketplace, according to NZ Training Manager, Luke Cosford. “Although the equipment was still operating well, we felt the facility should reflect industry best practice. It’s about highlighting what customers can gain by researching the latest technology and reaping the benefits of reinvesting in new equipment. This leading-edge new training facility is the perfect place to showcase PPG’s advanced technology product range.”
Given it caters to a wide range of courses – from high level technician training through to information sessions for insurance personnel – a lot of thought went into the design phase. As well as incorporating ultra-modern, high productivity and energy efficient equipment, every aspect of the facility benefits from ‘Lean’ methodologies – an area PPG personnel have had ongoing training in over the past several years. This ensures everything that is needed is easily at hand, yet it eliminates the unnecessary clutter which causes inefficiencies. The new spray booth includes glass front and sides, LED lighting, a fully programmable touchscreen interface and an inbuilt air turbulence system which promotes better curing by distributing hot air evenly. Plenty of glass also features on the new tint / mixing room, along with a minimalist fit-out combining stark white tiles and stainless-steel surfaces.
Perhaps the biggest gain comes from the new double prep bay, explains Luke. “The new double prep bay and booth essentially give us two training areas. With built-in infrared and UV light units on a rail system and dustless sanding units with MIRKA sanders and abrasives, the prep bay is perfect for teaching modern repair techniques and effectives ways to tackle smaller job with speed and quality.”
With the new facility now in action, customers can again choose from a wide spread of courses. Along with paint system courses (ENVIROBASE High Performance, DELFLEET Evolution, etc.), there are process-based courses covering topics such as ‘SMART repairs’, ‘Refinishing plastics’ or ‘UV priming’, as well as much more, says Luke. “Two of our most popular courses are on the application of Mazda’s 46V Soul Red Crystal and 46G Machine Grey. It can be a little daunting when technicians first come across these colours but we show them the exact process to match them using PPG’s ready-to-go colour capability. They leave with a lot of confidence that, by following the process, they will consistently achieve an excellent match. For nearly two decades, the Auckland Training Centre has been the ideal place to upskill and, with all the new equipment and training methods, it’s better than ever and that can only be a good thing for the New Zealand industry.”
For more information on PPG training courses or to book a course, speak to you Territory Manager, your Training Manager or call (NZ) 0800 477 487.