Ken Seal, Deputy Director for the International Finishing Trades Institute (IFTI) of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT), caught up with AMPP Media on the sidelines of the 2026 AMPP Annual Conference + Expo.

Discussion topics include the importance of workforce development and recruitment initiatives, as well as how industry bodies like the IUPAT and AMPP can work together to enhance training and workforce retention.

In his interview, Seal also cites key market sectors driving investment, such as data centers and bridges, and he explains the benefits of union representation in navigating market challenges. With the help of organizations such as the IUPAT, this can be done while maintaining high standards and ensuring job security and safety for workers.