Steve Acorn
President

In 1985 I started with the company as a Branch Manager in Sarnia, Ontario. As President of the company for over 27 years, I have had the wonderful opportunity of working with students from all over the Midwest. Being able to mentor and guide them in finding their true potential as young business men and women is extremely rewarding. This is an outstanding opportunity for the right person. If you have heart, desire, and a hard work ethic, it is amazing what can be achieved. It is very exciting to watch the growth of the student managers throughout their career with Student Painters. Each Manager can tell an incredible story to any full time employer once they have completed their journey with Student Painters. A story that will definitely set them apart from their peers. When they graduate and go out in the real world, I look forward to finding out what career path they have chosen and how being a part of Student Painters helped them achieve their goals.

 

 


Charlie Licari
Managing Partner, Illinois Division

I started with Student Painters when I was in college at Oakland University. The greatest enjoyment for me is the fact that I can help an ambitious college student begin their path towards entrepreneurial freedom. Our vision and passion for what we do combined with our manager’s determination and grit creates a winning atmosphere and a culture that is unparalleled. Here at Student Painters, you don’t read about building a successful business, you actually create one and in turn open the door to incredible growth opportunities with Student Painters.

 

 


Scott Snyder
General Manager, Ohio Division

I was initially hired as a Branch Manager with Student Painters during my freshman year of college at Miami University, OH. I knew that I had always had an entrepreneurial spirit but I had never had an opportunity to try my hand at running my own business. My first year with Student Painters I learned how to deal with employees and earn the trust of homeowners. My confidence grew tremendously and I really did enjoy the journey of running my own business. I ended up running my own business with Student Painters for two more summers during my college years. I now have the wonderful opportunity of coaching other college students to realize their full potential as entrepreneurs. Every year is a new challenge and I truly enjoy the excitement and opportunity that working for Student Painters offers.


Joel Puthoff
Vice President, Carolina’s Division

As a sophomore at Wittenberg University in 2005, I embarked in a journey that has turned into a passionate career path, where I have the opportunity to have a positive impact on the lives of college students.   There is nothing more rewarding than working with an ambitious college student that has big dreams for their own futures.  Each year I am privileged to find a group of hungry young adults that want to take on a challenge, out of the normal way of life, and into something that can inspire new dreams and a new way of making money.  I am excited for my 7th year with the program as we expand our success and the opportunities that come with it.  As much of an opportunity and challenge it is for the student, it is for me and the Team that we have in the Carolinas, in creating more successful Entrepreneurs in this opportunistic world that we live in.  It is always amazing to see what a strong positive mental attitude can accomplish with hard work and dedication to winning.

 


 
Andrew Dennison
Vice President-Michigan/Maryland /Pennsylvania

There are certain lessons and values that you can only get first hand. I don’t think you can beat real life entrepreneurial experience. Through Student Painters, I have learned to put tough scenarios into perspective in order to minimize stress and calmly solve problems. My leadership skills have increased greatly because I have to make difficult decisions every day. As a result, my confidence grew substantially and I feel much more prepared for life after school. Joining Student Painters is the best decision I have made in my college career. I have learned much more dealing with real-life situations then answering questions posed on exams.

 


Ben Burke
Vice President, Missouri

In my four years with this organization, I have overseen almost $1.3 Million worth of business. In the next year alone, my goal is over $2 Million. I never would have thought that this summer internship as a freshman in college would turn into such an influential part of my life, but it has. The skills that I have gained and the experiences that have occurred because of the time I have spent working within Young Entrepreneurs are priceless. I love teaching, I love learning, and I love working independently. This job could not have been better suited for me. No other program could have given me the confidence that I feel in all business situations. I plan to continue to work with and inspire motivated college students well into the future. 

 


Josh Drushel
General Manager, Ohio Division

I have worked for Student Painters for over 4 years and each and every year has brought about new learning experiences, challenges, and an even greater appreciation for what this company is all about.  I first joined Student Painters as a junior business student at The Ohio State University.  I knew that I needed something on my resume to set me apart from my peers.  The company’s knowledge and training partnered with my drive and determination allowed me to run a $78,000 business and profit $17,000 in my first summer.  I worked much harder than I ever thought was possible and was challenged more than I ever could have imagined and that was exactly what I signed up for.  I enjoyed it so much I came back for 1 more year before I neared graduation and began interviewing for full-time jobs.  It was at that point that I realized how much more this opportunity was than just simply money.  I was much more comfortable in my interviews because I knew nobody else could possibly have something like my experience on their resume.  It also didn’t take me long to realize that once explained properly all that recruiters wanted to talk about was my experience with Student Painters because they were so impressed.  This company gave me the skills, experience, and confidence to obtain several job offers upon graduation and to be able to pick where I wanted to go.  After taking one of those jobs for a year and a half I decided to return to Student Painters and help other students gain the same experience that I had.  If you are a determined, hard-working, and enthusiastic student looking for a summer internship that will help you grow more than you thought possible then I would challenge you to come take a look at our opportunity.


Mike Roberts
General Manager, Indiana

The experience I have gained from my internship with Student Painters has been incredible. The opportunity that Student Painters provides is unlike anything else offered to a college student. College courses and professors can prepare you for what to expect when running a business but nothing compares to actually doing it yourself. During the past summer I was able to run a successful $65,000 business and employed 16 people. I don’t know of any experience that can look better on a resume than that. Any entrepreneurial minded person can see the amazing potential with Student Painters. I am very excited to take on a fulltime position with the organization as the General Manager of Indiana. I will be able to help students have as great of an experience as I did.


 
Cyle Dowling
General Manager-Maryland/Pennsylvania

My name is Cyle Dowling. I currently mentor Student Painter branch managers in the state of Pennsylvania. Starting in 2008, I joined the Student Painters internship in Michigan with hope of advancing my resume and earning an above average summer income. In my first two years, with the help from my mentors, I was able to earn more than $10,000 in profit each summer. I learned the invaluable lessons of time-management, customer relations, and professional selling skills. Over the coarse of my time with the company I have developed as a leader and have obtained a strong resume. With room for advancement, Student Painters is an amazing opportunity for motivated students who are looking for a way to take the next step in business and elevate both their attitude and their experience. I now look forward to coaching and mentoring the next generation of exceptional college students within our company, so they may have the tools and experience to accomplish any goals that may lay ahead.

 

 

 


James Roper
General Manager-Maryland/Pennsylvania

My name is James Roper. I am the General Manager for South Carolina. I first became a part of Student Painters as a branch manager back when I was a sophomore at the University of South Carolina, where I received my degree in Business Administration with majors in Entrepreneurship, Marketing, and Real Estate. This is my fourth year with the program and third as an executive. One of my big dreams is to motivate others through my speaking and coaching, little did I know that I would graduate from college with the opportunity to fulfill my dream immediately! Developing young entrepreneurs is a passion of mine that I am privileged with pursuing every day! Nothing brings more joy in my life then being able to develop successful individuals and empower them to achieve their big dreams!

 

 


Sara F. Acorn
Company Controller

I am responsible for Financial Reports, Financial Systems, training and maintaining all Divisions Office Managers and support staff, and Event planning including the yearly Awards Cruise to the Bahamas. I started at Student Painters in 1993 while attending Oakland University. I feel very fortunate to have been part of the Student Painter business for the past 19 years. The most gratifying part of the business is seeing the next generation of managers come through. These young Entrepreneurs are very motivating, and make this company new and dynamic each year.

 

 

 


Lisa Harris
Company Office Manager
Midwest Division Payroll Manager

I started at Student Painters in Feb. 2008. My growth within Student Painters from Adminstrative Assistant to Office Manager has been a great accomplishment in both my professional and personal life. Working with the executive on every day operations is an exciting, challenging and rewarding position. Being part of the growing expansion of the company is truley an incredible experience to be part of. My other responsibilities include accounts payable, accounts receivable and processing of the Midwest payroll. Along with that, it is great to see the younger generation want to excel and succeed over their peers. They all have such great determination and character.


 

Lisa Mann
Customer Service Manager
Recruiting Department Supervisor

I started working at Student Painters in the fall of 2005 fresh out of high school. While attending Oakland University to get a degree in Human Resources, I have been able to work year round for the company. I have been able to watch many students like myself grow into well rounded young adults through the challenges and great rewards we face in the business. Student Painters has taught me many life skills that I will be able to incorporate not only into my degree but also in my future as a person. Upon graduation I will have a resume I will be confident in, fun memories, and great friendships. My duties include overseeing warranty work, customer satisfaction, making sure Student Painters is complying with the new EPA guidelines, and I am the Supervisor of the Recruiting Department.


 
Haley DeGrandchamp
Carolina’s & Maryland/Pennsylvania Payroll Manager
CMU Recruiter

I have recently started working for Student Painters this past year. I am a senior at Central Michigan University majoring in Finance. I began working at Student Painters in 2011.  I was hired in as a office assistant and was promoted to payroll manager. Student Painters is a great opportunity to build a resume, and learn skills that can be utilized in the work force as well as real life. I have just joined this company; however, I am looking forward to be with Student Painters for years to come. I cannot wait to see how much I learn and all the memories I will gain.


Natalie Balsamo
Ohio/Michigan Payroll Manager
Assistant Midwest Payroll Manager

I started working for Student Painters in May of 2009. I am a Michigan State University graduate with a degree in communications. I am currently obtaining an internship with Student Painters for the summer.  I am the Michigan and Ohio divisions’ payroll manager.  My responsibilities include processing the divisions’ payrolls and assisting customers and managers. Working for Student Painters has is both exciting and rewarding. Having an office job with such substantial responsibilities has led me to be very proficient in many different areas which have helped to build my resume and prepare me for whatever career path the future holds.




Rachel Paone
Administrative Assistant/Call Center Team Leader

I began working for Student Painters in September 2011. Although I have only been here for a short time, I have gained an abundant amount of knowledge and skills. I was hired into the company as a Team Leader in the Recruiting Department. I also work in the office during the day. Working here has allowed me to become a more confident and proficient person. It has been a smooth transition for me, coming from a completely different atmosphere, into Student Painters. Currently, I am finishing my Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management at Walsh College. After Walsh, I plan to complete my professional Makeup/FX Makeup education, and open up my own studio. The great thing about this company is I can use all of the skills I have gained here, and apply them to my future endeavors.



Alyssa Fantauzzo
Administrative Assistant/Receptionist
 
I joined Student Painters in March of 2011 as an Receptionist/Administrative Assistant.  I currently attend Utica High School and plan on attending college after I graduate from high school.  My role on the Student Painters team is to assist with any office work needed, and help anyone needing additional support.  My goal is to learn about the business world and to grow with the company.  I am very excited to join the team and help the company succeed in the future.  Being part of this company will keep me motivated and help me reach my career goals.
 

 


 
 
Gabriella Trueman
Administrative Assistant/Receptionist
 
I was recently hired with Student Painters as of March 2012. I am currently a freshman at Macomb Community College. I am working my way into the Vet Tech program. My role here at Student Painters is Administrative Assistant and Receptionist. I am very excited to be a part of the team. I have already learned a great deal that I will be able to use in my profession once graduated and am excited  to continue to learn and grow as the company does. This is a very motivating job that’s keeps me on my toes and I will always be learning new things.