Professional aerospace coatings applicators will be able to earn industry approved qualifications through the Aerospace Coatings Applicator Specialist (ACAS) program, administered by PRI Qualification, the organization that administers Nadcap.
The initiative will launch in 2021 following the recent release of a "Coatings Applicator Body of Knowledge" and the completion of a pilot program to qualify certifying agencies.
The proper application of aerospace coatings is vital to prevent corrosion and cracking when the aircraft is operational. Applying those coatings requires a high level of proficiency and manual skill. This is the reason a robust global system for qualifying individuals working in this field is so important.
The ACAS program is underpinned by the SAE AS7489 standard written by the SAE G8 Organic Coatings committee. The PRI Qualification program supports the operational delivery of ACAS working in collaboration with industry experts from companies including ADDEV Materials, Boeing, CFAN, Honeywell, Lockheed Martin, Nycote Laboratories, PPG, Saint Clair Systems, and professional development organizations such as SpaceTEC and SAE ITC. Individuals will be able to validate their skills through a network of global certifying agencies, and training providers will conduct training based on the Body of Knowledge and proctor practical assessments.
As Pennie Burnham, VP of Sales and Marketing with Nycote Laboratories Corporation and the new Chair of the PRI Qualification Coatings Applicator Review Board explains, with the certifying agency pilot process currently in progress, it is an exciting time to get involved:
“The work that PRI is doing to establish an ACAS program couldn't come in a more timely moment," they say. "The ACAS program provides a universal level of quality, access to experienced certified technicians and trainers, and a Review Board to ensure compliance. This program is a great benefit for the aerospace industry.”
To participate in the program’s oversight through the PRI Qualification Coatings Applicator Review Board or to seek approval as a certifying agency or training provider, please contact priqualification@p-r-i.org.
About PRI Qualification
PRI Qualification is a global industry-managed program for aerospace special process personnel skills development and qualification. It empowers all parties to influence, collaborate and be part of a new approach to skills management by developing Bodies of Knowledge and assessments (online theory and practical). PRI Qualification addresses two major workforce challenges currently facing the aerospace industry: the current global skills crisis and managing a global workforce to ensure consistent, high standards in special process manufacturing. PRI Qualification also approves Training Providers to deliver courses aligned with the Bodies of Knowledge. PRI Qualification is administered by the not-for-profit Performance Review Institute, which also administers Nadcap. Learn more at https://p-r-i.org/pri-qualification/ or contact priqualification@p-r-i.org.
