JIGARKUMAR PATEL
UV R&D Technical Manager, SHERWIN-WILLIAMS
Could you please share your current role, what it entails, and what excites you most about it?
As the UV R&D technical manager, I lead Sherwin-Williams’ research and development efforts within the UV-curing technology space, overseeing product innovation across 100% solids UV and WB UV platforms. My role bridges strategic planning with hands-on technical leadership, ensuring our product roadmap aligns with market trends and customer needs.
What it entails:
- Strategic Leadership: Defining and executing technology roadmaps that support business growth and competitive differentiation
- Innovation Management: Driving new product development from concept to commercialization, focusing on advanced technologies
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Working closely with commercial and operations to translate customer insights into technical solutions
- Team Development: Building and mentoring a high-performing R&D team across new product development and application of existing and new products
- Operational Oversight: Managing budgets, tracking KPIs, and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements
What excites me most about it:
What truly energizes me is the opportunity to shape the future of product related innovation. I thrive on solving complex technical challenges, launching cutting-edge products, and seeing our technologies make a tangible impact across industries. The fast-paced evolution of UV-curing and LED platforms keeps me constantly learning and pushing boundaries.
What brought you to the coatings industry? Was it part of the plan, or did you discover coatings along the way?
My first professional endeavor after graduating was with an organization specializing in the synthesis of hardeners for epoxy systems. This role opened the door to working with global customers on large-scale applications, which was both technically challenging and incredibly exciting.
Armed with a graduate degree in polymer science, I had a solid foundation to understand how molecular structure influences the performance of finished products. That knowledge proved invaluable and made the work feel less like a job and more like a passion. I relished the opportunity to visit customers, see the products I helped develop being implemented on-site, and witness firsthand the tangible impact of our innovations.
That experience was a turning point—I realized the coatings industry was where I could truly thrive, combining my technical background with real-world applications to deliver value at scale..
How important has mentorship or a piece of advice from someone been in your career—and have you had the chance to mentor others in return?
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of learning from several exceptional mentors, each leaving a unique imprint on my professional development. I was especially fortunate early on to have a mentor who emphasized the importance of patience and active listening when facing technical challenges. They taught me that the solution often lies within the problem’s description itself—an insight that continues to serve me well today.
Over time, others helped me refine my communication skills, particularly the ability to transform complex scientific reports into practical, accessible summaries that resonate across teams and stakeholders. I also received valuable advice about the irreplaceable role of bench work in product understanding—there’s simply no substitute for hands-on experimentation when evaluating performance.
Most recently, I’ve worked closely with a mentor who showed me how to thoughtfully combine bench work with meaningful data collection. By selecting the right variables and designing smart experiments, I’ve learned to generate insights that not only validate hypotheses but also drive innovation.
These mentoring relationships have been more than just moments of guidance—they’ve shaped the way I approach problem-solving, collaboration, and continuous learning.
Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to learn from mentors whose teaching and training methods were remarkably effective in their simplicity. Their approach made complex ideas accessible, and I continue to apply those techniques at every opportunity. One standout example is the way they practiced clear, compassionate communication—paired with genuine encouragement to push personal boundaries and aim higher. They believed deeply in their mentees’ potential and consistently provided the tools and guidance needed to succeed.
In recent years, a surge of new tools and processes has made it even easier to support growth and development. I strive to take full advantage of these innovations, always keeping my mentors’ principles at the core of my approach.
How, if at all, did your educational background shape your path into coatings?
Like many students immersed in lectures and lab experiments, I often found myself wondering whether the intricate world of chemistry would truly translate to real-world impact. For me, the answer was a resounding yes.
Two pivotal experiences stand out. First, Eastern Michigan University introduced a groundbreaking class on UV coatings just as I was exploring research opportunities. That single class didn’t just enhance my academic knowledge—it reshaped my entire trajectory. I became a research assistant in the program, diving deep into the science of UV coatings, which laid the foundation for what would become my career.
Second, earning a degree wasn’t just about mastering technical content—it taught me how to problem-solve, set meaningful goals, and persist toward them. The academic journey itself reinforced the kind of discipline and critical thinking that continue to be invaluable in my professional life today.
What’s one project or innovation you’ve worked on that you’re especially proud of?
One of the projects I’m most proud of—and deeply humbled by—involved solving a particularly complex challenge in product development. The goal was ambitious: reduce the application cycle time by at least 50%, without compromising visual aesthetics or performance integrity.
After multiple attempts and support from colleagues who believed in the process, I was ultimately able to deliver a solution that met every benchmark. Today, that product is not only in commercial use but stands as a testament to what persistence, teamwork, and technical innovation can achieve.
How do you stay current with advancements in coatings technology?
Beyond maintaining valuable connections with peers now working across different companies, I make it a point to stay current through a variety of channels. One especially impactful resource is academic research happening at select universities around the world. While this may seem broad, the number of institutions actively pursuing research in industrial polymers is relatively limited compared to other scientific domains—making targeted engagement more essential.
Industry associations also offer a wealth of insight into emerging trends and technologies. Groups such as the American Coatings Association and RadTech, along with their specialized sub-organizations, continually publish findings and host events that shape the field’s future. Additionally, digital platforms like LinkedIn regularly highlight new research initiatives, innovative product developments, and expert commentary—all of which help me stay attuned to the evolving landscape of industrial applications and polymer science.
Have you ever taken a detour or changed directions in your career? What did that pivot teach you?
At one point in my career, I took a detour into the ink industry, spending little over a year immersed in technologies that blended UV, solvent, water-based, and Ebeam products. This unexpected shift proved to be an exceptional learning opportunity—offering hands-on experience with ink applications and a fresh perspective on material performance.
One of the most eye-opening aspects was discovering the nuanced differences between inks and coatings. Two distinctions especially stood out: the variance in film thickness requirements and the expectations around dry film performance. While coatings often demand tighter control over color specifications for technical consistency, ink colors are intrinsically tied to brand identity—making them central to visual recognition in nearly every case. Observing how these priorities play out in product design and manufacturing was both fascinating and invaluable.
Have you faced any significant professional challenges, and if so, how did you overcome them?
One of the most formative challenges I faced came during my internship, when I was introduced to a cutting-edge technology that presented an unexpected obstacle: achieving reliable adhesion to a specific substrate. With no clear blueprint to follow, I quickly discovered the value of diving deep into existing literature and moving fast on hypotheses. Speed and precision in execution became essential tools.
After testing more than 100 different variations, we arrived at a product that delivered near-perfect adhesion. Even more rewarding, the process revealed three distinct, viable paths to success—each offering its own practical insight. That experience not only strengthened my technical foundation, but also instilled an early appreciation for curiosity, experimentation, and collaboration in solving high-stakes challenges.
How has the coatings industry changed since you entered it?
Since I entered coatings Industry, it has undergone a dramatic transformation, shaped by economic shifts, environmental pressures, and technological innovation. Regulations are driving change when it comes to sustainability, VOC reduction, and waste minimization. There is more focus on smart coatings and automation. Some changes are driven by market dynamics, for example, global growth demands increased speed and consolidation.
What trends or developments do you think are shaping the future of coatings?
UV and LED curing or conventional fast curing technologies have emerged as game-changers, offering immediate drying and dramatically cutting down energy usage. This shift from conventional curing methods not only boosts efficiency but also supports products with low VOC or 100% solids, meaning fewer emissions and an eco-friendlier production line. Industries such as wood coatings, electronics, and digital printing have especially embraced UV/LED curing because it integrates smoothly into automated processes and reduces thermal stress on substrates.
Another major benefit of fast-cure coatings is their ability to shrink the operational footprint. OEM finishers can build more compact production lines, reduce infrastructure costs, and still achieve high throughput. Faster line speeds and precise, on-demand curing mean manufacturers can increase production without sacrificing quality or sustainability. The move toward automation is becoming seamless as these coating technologies open doors for more agile and responsive manufacturing.
What skills or traits do you think are essential for success in this industry?
In today’s rapidly evolving coatings industry, embracing change is no longer optional—it’s essential. Success hinges on the ability to stay curious, welcome new ideas, and continually push the boundaries of innovation. As fast-cure technologies, sustainable solutions, and digital integration reshape the landscape, those who adapt quickly and think creatively will lead the charge. By fostering a mindset that thrives on transformation, companies position themselves not just to survive, but to define the future of coatings.
What advice would you give someone just starting out in the industry or considering a career in coatings?
For newcomers in the coatings industry, the journey starts with humility and curiosity. No one walks in knowing everything, and that’s perfectly okay. The learning curve can be steep, but those who stay motivated, ask questions, and actively seek guidance from experienced colleagues tend to progress quickly. Mentorship and collaboration are invaluable assets. Don’t shy away from voicing ideas for improvement either; innovation often begins with a fresh perspective. Speak up, stay engaged, and remember—growth comes from the courage to keep learning and the confidence to contribute.
What keeps you motivated and eager to come to work each day?
Solving problems is at the heart of what drives me. Whether the challenge is internal or customer-facing, the journey from problem identification to solution is a dynamic process that demands both creativity and critical thinking. What excites me most is how problem-solving naturally intertwines with decision-making—choosing the right path forward, weighing alternatives, and evaluating trade-offs all become essential steps in crafting effective solutions.
This process gives me the opportunity to understand how systems and people come together, how individual thought processes influence collective outcomes, and how informed decisions shape improvements over time. Each resolution brings not only technical clarity but emotional relief, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to see people breathe easier when a problem is behind us.
How does company culture impact your work and ability to perform successfully?
Sherwin-Williams exemplifies how a strong company culture can be the cornerstone of success and growth. With a legacy spanning over 150 years, the company fosters an environment where employees are empowered to thrive through integrity, innovation, and collaboration. Sherwin-Williams places a high priority on professional development, offering robust training programs, mentorship opportunities, and career advancement resources that support growth at every level.
Their culture is built on inclusion and belonging, celebrating diverse perspectives and encouraging employees to bring their full selves to work. This commitment is reflected in initiatives that promote sustainability, community engagement, and continuous improvement. By investing in its people and cultivating a workplace where excellence is both expected and supported, Sherwin-Williams creates a foundation where individuals and teams can succeed together.
What opportunities or unique advantages does your company offer that someone new to the workforce or not too familiar with coatings should consider as a career pathway?
At Sherwin-Williams, investing in our people goes beyond competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits—we’re dedicated to setting new employees up for long-term success. Through a range of development programs and career resources, we aim to support everyone’s journey from day one.
One standout initiative is our dedicated online learning platform, accessible via our learning app. This robust tool offers a wide variety of free courses and materials that encourage employees to pursue their interests and expand their skills at every stage of their career.
Perhaps the most powerful resource is our hands-on, on-the-job training. Sherwin-Williams places strong emphasis on experiential learning, giving new team members the opportunity to gain practical experience while being mentored by seasoned colleagues. This collaborative approach ensures that learning is not only continuous—but deeply rooted in real-world application.
Sherwin-Williams is committed to fostering individual growth and professional development through a flexible, personalized approach to career mobility. By aligning opportunities with each employee’s unique aspirations, the company empowers movement across diverse job families—from R&D and Marketing to Supply Chain and Quality—supporting a rich tapestry of career paths and possibilities. This dynamic model enables talent to flourish and evolve in ways that resonate with their long-term goals.
By providing thoughtful tools and personalized support, Sherwin-Williams continues to cultivate an environment where every employee can thrive, grow, and contribute meaningfully.
Jigarkumar Patel is an accomplished R&D technical manager at Sherwin-Williams, specializing in industrial wood coatings. With over 15 years of experience in product development, technical service, and customer support, he has led innovations in UV, water-based UV, and conventional WB/SB coatings. Patel has a strong track record of managing cross-functional teams, implementing innovative tools for quality and development, and delivering solutions for diverse client needs. He holds advanced degrees in polymer and coating technology and has contributed to industry knowledge through published research and patents. His leadership and technical expertise continue to drive sustainable and high-performance coating solutions.
Email: jigar.patel@sherwin.com
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