It'll bring hundreds of jobs to our area... and help diversify our economy. All while bringing much-needed tax dollars to some struggling public programs in Northern Nevada.

And on top of that, they'll produce more than ten million gallons of paint every year. The company could have gone anywhere, but says that Reno's business-savvy ways were the most inviting.

PPG Industries, a world-wide paint supplier, just opened its first new plant in the United States since 1975, but it's one of hundreds across the nation and the world. Now, it's right here in Northern Nevada.

You'll find the plant just 15 miles east of Reno on Interstate 80, surrounded by wild horses and open space. Inside, you'll find state-of-the-art equipment, busy employees on the production line, and millions, and millions of gallons, of fresh paint.

"Unlike many products that could come from Asia or other places, paint is a domestically produced, regional product," said PPG's Director of Manufacturing, Ronald Bishop.

The local plant will now provide paint to 250 stores across all of our Western States. It has the potential to produce 15 million gallons of paint each year, and employ hundreds of our local people. Jobs start at about $18.00 an hour, plus benefits...and there's availabilities for both college degree holders, as well as high school graduates.

UNR grad Russ Ricciardelli got a job as a lab technician at PPG, right out of college with his biology major.

"It's a positive feeling. I think there is a lot of potential as far as climbing up the ladder, a lot of opportunities that PPG offers."

Aside from jobs, the company is boosting community programs in Northern Nevada. Storey County Superintendent Robert Slaby says new companies mean new taxes for local schools.

"Because of the money they gave us, we are building a new science lab and art room. I think it's ironic that the art class that uses paint will get money from PPG to add an art room," said Slaby.

Company managers say PPG chose to build a plant in Reno because of it's central location and the value placed on Nevada's work force.

"It's unbelievable the amount of potential I see in this area. I am from the East Coast, from Dover Delaware. My family traveled out here and I see phenomenal opportunities," said Reno's PPG Plant Manager, Terry McGinnis.

The vision is that one day, PPG will expand, meaning more jobs and opportunities. They say our future with the company is bright...and it only has room to grow.

If you're curious where you can purchase this new "Made-in-Nevada" product, you'll find PPG paints locally, both at Loewe's home improvement store, as well as any location of Reno Paint Mart.