The Center for the Polyurethanes Industry (CPI) today announced the course curriculum for the 2018 Polyurethanes Professional Development Program (PDP). The program is presented by the CPI Education Center and features nine unique courses developed to provide professionals with all levels of experience an opportunity to broaden their knowledge and learn firsthand from industry experts. The courses range from general introductory subjects designed for newcomers, to advanced, specialized topics for specialists. The PDP will run in conjunction with the 2018 Polyurethanes Technical Conference, which will be held Oct. 1-3, in Atlanta.

“For almost 15 years the Professional Development Program has effectively promoted and accelerated professional development across the industry. The PDP is a key pillar of the value proposition of the annual Polyurethanes Technical Conference: high-quality presentations of technical innovations, discussion opportunities around technical posters, travel honoraria for Masters and Ph.D. students in related fields, and top-quality instructors for these courses that contribute to the knowledge base and expertise of a sustainable workforce,” said Lee Salamone, senior director of CPI. “Our unique, case-based teaching approach creates an opportunity for participants to stay informed and up-to-date on the latest trends and topics across the polyurethane industry.”

Subject matter experts throughout the industry will teach the 2018 curriculum, helping to expand the knowledge of participants in both technical and non-technical courses. 

The full listing of 2018 PDP courses can be found below:

• Sunday, Sept. 30
  • PU 101: Polyurethane Chemistry
  • PU 104A: Polyurethane Adhesives and Sealants
  • PU 105: Polyurethane Processing Equipment
• Monday, Oct. 1
  • PU 102A: Flexible Polyurethane Marketing Overview 
  • PU 102B: Rigid Polyurethane Foam Market Overview 
  • PU 104B: Polyurethane Coatings and Elastomers 
• Tuesday, Oct. 2
  • PU 100: Introduction to Polyurethane Industry 
  • PU 201: Polyurethane Raw Materials, Testing, Specifications, and Performance: The Myth and the Magic
  • PU 204: Physical Testing of Polyurethane Foams 

In addition to the PDP program, the annual conference will feature more than 70 technical presentations by industry experts and government officials, as well as the Polyurethane Innovation Award. The deadline for submissions to be considered for this prestigious award is June 15.