MPI Update

News from MPI HQ: A special year-end message from MPI Operations Director, Lucy Schneider.

As we near the end of 2025, I wanted to share with you the work that MPI have been doing, and will continue to do into 2026!  But first, I wanted to thank everyone that has been involved in helping us to make improvements; from those sharing feedback, or using and promoting our products, adopting our systems and educations courses, to those that actively work with us as SME’s to help elevate our content. Thank you for being a part of our journey and successes.

The MPI team have had another busy year, with our big focus being on the Education content and Industrial Performance standards:

• Our redeveloped Essentials In Paint And Painting Technology course now incorporates 25% new material aligned with current industry practices. It is delivered on a new learning platform that allows for interactive content, videos, pop quizzes and more!
  
  
• The Specification courses are in the final stage of redevelopment and will be available in the new platform early 2026, with the Paint Quality Assurance course expected to be completed shortly afterwards.
  
  
• For Industrial Performance Standard; throughout 2025 we have been working with the Department of Defense (DoD) and other Industry experts, on updating the 500 series set of standards, The goal of this project is to ensure that these standards result in achievable and consistent product performance for products that protect fuel and waterfront assets.  

We are just as excited for 2026, as we have a number of exciting projects lined up ready to keep the newly expanded MPI team busy throughout the year!

• Launching in 2026 in the new training platform; an MPI training program challenge exam. This will be launched as part of a reciprocal program allowing Industrial Certified Inspectors an opportunity to smoothly transition into the Architectural side of the industry.
  
  
• Also in the new training platform you will start to see the introduction of micro credential courses, courses designed around substrate such as a commercial concrete course, and a re-designed Painters Guide short course.  

• MPI will be working to get the new version of AMPPs QP9 standard for architectural and coatings contractors specified, so contractors can demonstrate their commitment to quality to asset owners.
  
  
• The MPI Decision Tree™ tools will be getting an overhaul in 2026! Using feedback gathered throughout 2015 and utilizing newly available software and AI technologies, the aim is to develop and launch a tool that allows for effortless and intelligent specification in the industry.
• We will be continuing to expand our global partnerships throughout 2026, with Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East already on track to adopt MPI systems and standards.

Thank you to our customers, supporters and partners for a great 2025,  and we look forward to working with you in the new year!

Professional Tip

Engage a certified coatings inspector before surface preparation begins. Early collaboration allows inspectors to review substrates, confirm surface conditions, and identify potential issues that could compromise adhesion or long-term performance. By catching problems before the first coat is applied, you prevent rework and ensure every layer of the system performs as designed.