The growth trend at SSPC: The Society for Protective Coatings continues in 2018 as the organization recently announced several staff additions, promotions and key changes related to its May 15 reorganization. Key additions include the hiring of Kevin LaRue as the new director of technical services, and Greg Muha as the new director of member development and engagement. In addition to these new hires, Jennifer Merck has been promoted to the new position of director of training and certification. Having been with SSPC more than 18 years, Merck has been an integral player in the growth of SSPC's training and certification programs, as well as a key component in maintaining DoD-funded contracts for SSPC to train and certify more than 3,500 military personnel.