The International Union of Painters and Allied Trades District Council 53 (IUPAT DC 53) held its annual Coatings and Corrosion Expo on April 17 at the IUPAT training center in Weirton, West Virginia. This highly anticipated event brought together professionals from across the region who specialize in combating industrial corrosion and applying protective coatings.
A Hands-On Learning Experience for the Industrial Sector
The 2025 Coatings and Corrosion Expo featured live demonstrations and expert-led training sessions designed for a wide range of industry professionals, including:
- Pipeline contractors
- Paint and coating technicians
- Oil and gas workers
- Chemical plant operators
- Bridge and concrete structure specialists
- Refinery professionals
Participants gained valuable insights into best practices for corrosion prevention, protective coatings application, and structural maintenance.
In-Demand Industry Topics and Technical Training
This year’s Expo offered a robust schedule of sessions and classes on topics such as:
- Corrosion basics and prevention strategies
- Concrete and pipeline coatings
- Bridge inspection and assessment
- Coating technologies for industrial tanks
- Cost-saving coatings for bridge maintenance
- Protective coatings inspection fundamentals
Each course was developed to enhance skills and highlight the real-world application of modern coatings technology.
A Growing Event with Statewide Impact
Launched in 2013, the Coatings and Corrosion Expo has grown steadily over the past 12 years, drawing more than 200 attendees annually—including industry vendors, contractors, and public officials. The event continues to showcase the strength and value of the IUPAT DC 53 apprenticeship and training program.
State and local leaders were present this year to tour the facility and see firsthand the impact of a highly trained workforce on West Virginia’s economy and infrastructure.
IUPAT DC 53 Apprenticeship Program: Training Tomorrow’s Workforce
“This Expo delivers the most advanced training and demonstrations in the region for properly managing corrosion and applying industrial coatings,” said Brian Stanley, Business Manager of IUPAT DC 53. “Our training center sets the standard for excellence in coatings education.”
The event underscores the importance of union-led apprenticeship programs in meeting the workforce demands of industries where corrosion control and coatings are essential.
Interested in a career with IUPAT DC 53?
Learn more about Finishing Trades apprenticeship and training programs at https://www.ftidc53.org/industrial-coatings
Learn more about IUPAT apprenticeship and training programs at https://iupatdc53.org/apprenticeship/
