Hope DesRoche Painting

by Gloria Welton

Hope DesRoche is a fourth-year UPEI Business student who has operated her painting business each summer for the last three years. She was able to start the business with the help of the Student Works Management program, which helps students operate their own business during their education.

The program is an opportunity for full-time students to learn the practical skills necessary for business leadership, and then to apply those skills by operating their own service business over the summer break.

“I am learning a lot through the program and my business is thriving,” says Hope. “Being in business and getting direction from the program has changed my life and the way I handle my finances. It has been very rewarding, and it has helped with my education outcomes and dealing with tuition.

“Running a painting company was not something I had ever thought of before I was introduced to the program. I love all aspects of operating the company. I was always competitive with playing sports, so now I am using that competitive and driven edge to succeed in business.

“The biggest challenge is being a woman in the industry. However, it is rewarding to face the stigma and show people the fantastic work we do. The most rewarding part is to provide customers with quality work that increases their property value and makes a difference for them.”

The company does work all over the Island, and painting teams are based out of Charlottetown and Summerside. They do both exterior and interior painting and staining.

Hope acknowledges there is a great need for painting services on the Island. “As of now, we are booked into the end of July.

“I am supper thankful for the work and right now I am looking to find the right people to add to my team. This year I looked at more ways of attracting staff, such as attending job fairs, and I am way ahead of last year’s hiring at this point.”

Hope’s hiring message

“Want a super dynamic work environment this summer? How about one that will allow you to get an amazing tan and gain experience that will look great on your resume?

“Why not also help pay off some of that tuition burden? Come be part of a truly amazing team.

“If you’re a driven individual with access to a vehicle, take pride in your work, are a quick learner, and work well as part of a team, then this is absolutely the right summer job for you.”

Hiring needs

Hope typically hires 15 to 20 staff each year, depending on the demand. Painters and Crew Chiefs are needed for both Summerside and Charlottetown locations.

The positions are full time, from May until September. “All training is included, and previous experience is not necessary, but I need people with a great attitude, willingness to learn, and great work ethic.”

More details about the work:

• $16.50 to $20 per hour + bonuses
• Opportunity to develop and grow new skills and abilities
• Ideal position for a results-oriented and hardworking individual
• Payroll events and other team building activities.

For more information about starting your own business, check out the Student Works Management Program, visit www.studentworks.com/students