Company: College Pro

Position: Franchisee

Employed: Two years

Degree: Bachelor of Commerce Marketing

Where did you go to school? What program did you attend?

I attended the University of Saskatchewan, Edwards School of Business, and earned a bachelor degree in commerce marketing.

What drew you into your current field?

A friend of mine heard a class talk about the job. When she told me about it, I thought I would be a good fit so she signed me up.  I received a call that night and then went to meet Brad and Danny at the College Pro booth. I filled out an application form. I had three interviews. A week later, I was hired. 

Tell us a bit about your responsibilities.

For the past two years I have run a franchise'an entire painting company. I found work, made sure customers were happy, hired painters and a production manager to help move around equipment, and I bought all of my painting equipment (about $20,000 worth of equipment). 

The biggest day-to-day responsibility I have is keeping the people I hire busy. You promise a hard working 19-year-old a job for the whole summer and you have to deliver. I managed to never run out of work during the past two years.

What is the most challenging aspect of your position?

Throughout the month of May, there is so much to do and you are the only person who can do it right. This involves training your painters and making sure they are working. It is surprising what you have to tell people not to do, otherwise they will do it. During May, you have the stress of looking for work while getting your painters and business set up. That is the biggest hurdle you face, and if you can overcome it, it's pretty much smooth sailing from there. 

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

One of the most rewarding aspects is the pay-off at the end of the year. I also love developing my employees. Last year, one of my painters was selected as a franchisee for the following year, and he is on his way to the president's awards ceremony. The reward you get from developing people is similar to being a teacher. I also love driving around town and seeing all the painting jobs you've done. 

What skills have you learned through your work experience?

College Pro has changed my life. I wouldn't be in the position I am today, met the people I've met, or know I am capable of doing the things I am planning on doing if it wasn't for what College Pro has taught me. Now I know I can run a small company if I was ever to be put in that position. In the past I was more of an employee. Now, I am an employer. 

What do you think it takes to be successful in this career?

Perseverance is what it boils down to. You can do anything you set your mind to, but if you think you're going to fail, you're going to fail. You can't ever give up. Of course it's hard, but you have to see the light at the end of the tunnel, and figure out the things you have to do to get there. 

Is there one accomplishment you are most proud of to date?

I have grown the College Pro brand in my area. I have been getting calls from bigger commercial clients who got my number through word of mouth. I am proud of the name I've developed for myself in Saskatoon. 

What are your future career aspirations?

I am going into a full-time role with College Pro in September. I will be responsible for recruiting, hiring, training, and the overall success of the College Pro operations throughout Saskatchewan, while still running my own franchise. 

What advice do you have for students looking to land their first job?

Don't be afraid of challenges. If the job looks hard, or looks like you may not succeed, you should give it a try anyways, because that's the only way (and the best way) you'll learn. 

Also, never ever say the words I can't. I've been told that too many times over the past two years and it turns out I could, and I did.

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