But in those days, most PDCA contractors operated union shops. In 1993, open shops predominate. So open-shop contractors have to fend for themselves when it comes to passing on their craft to a new generation of workers. But as Porter said, training in the open-shop sector has received largely lip service.
Painting has the reputation of a low-skill trade.
Pierce, however, is one contractor who goes to church. He's laying the groundwork for a veritable painting college that if successful, could graduate apprentices for open-shop contractors across the country. Pierce is just one of a few who are walking the walk when it comes to training rookies. They're institutionalizing it in the classroom as well as carrying it out on the job in ways that the humblest contractor can adopt. This story is about following in their footsteps.