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What’s the hardest part of building a successful painting company? Some thoughts from PPC Editor Mike Starling.

For many who make their living with a paint brush, the actual work of putting color and coatings on a wall comes naturally. It’s the day-to-day business operations that often pose a bigger challenge. So how do you get better at this aspect of running your painting business?

Today, there are more options than ever. Nonprofit trade organizations like the Painting Contractors Association (PCA) and the Commercial Painting Industry Association (CPIA) offer a wide variety of educational resources and in-person events where you can connect with other painting company owners.

When it comes to the latest business trends, nothing could be more timely than Artificial Intelligence. Accordingly, the PCA is planning a special full-day AI Workshop to kick off its 2027 PCA Expo.

Learn more about this event in my interview with Jessica Bader and Maggie Kuyper of the PCA.

The CPIA also took an immersive, deep dive into AI on the opening day of its 2026 CPIA Leadership Conference in September. Executive Director Mike Stanley shares what the CPIA is hearing from its members on this trending tech topic in this story.

Bottom line, it’s all about pros helping pros. —Mike Starling, Editor, PPC/Pintor Pro

View the Fall-Winter 2026 issue flip book

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