Virtual Paint Training

by Lea Schellhorn
Created: July 12, 2011

New technology provides educational, environmental, and financial benefits.

Tom Giblin, one of STAR4D’s instructors, uses hands-on demonstrations in the classroom.
Tom Giblin, one of STAR4D’s instructors, uses hands-on demonstrations in the classroom.
The hands-on portion of training is important. Being able to practice the techniques learned through classroom and using VirtualPaint helps to reinforce concepts.
The hands-on portion of training is important. Being able to practice the techniques learned through classroom and using VirtualPaint helps to reinforce concepts.
Technicians are able to spray virtual coatings as a way to learn spray technique.
Technicians are able to spray virtual coatings as a way to learn spray technique.
The variation in color on the accumulation mode of VirtualPaint shows the thickness of paint sprayed by the technician. Photos courtesy of IWRC.
The variation in color on the accumulation mode of VirtualPaint shows the thickness of paint sprayed by the technician. Photos courtesy of IWRC.

A well-trained spray technician is critical to improving operations and the only way for a spray technician to become proficient is to practice their skills. Often, a few simple changes in spray technique can produce significant results. Spray painting is like any trade, there are constant improvements to the materials and processes and keeping up with the industry and new technologies is essential.

What began as a small program providing painter training assistance to automotive refinishing shops across the country became what the STAR4D program is now — a national program focused on providing training and certification for the spray application work force.

Lea Schellhorn graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with a BA in marketing. She is the marketing coordinator for the Iowa Waste Reduction Center. Ms. Schellhorn can be reached at lea.schellhorn@uni.edu. For more information, please visit www.star4d.org.