After facing a few setbacks, painter, Chris Young is living proof that resilience and taking pride in your work pays off.
Starting as an apprenticeship in 2006, and becoming fully qualified in 2010, Chris ‘subbied’ to his boss for three years before opening his own business.
“It’s been a tough slog the 10-15 years, but I’m learning new things every day,” Chris said.
Chris outlines how his day varies depending on duties, and shares how ‘no one day is the same’ as a business owner and painter.
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“My day can range from prep work all day, to filling, sanding, gapping, taping, to all the way through to enamelling and staining,” Chris said.
“Depending on the job, we do exterior timber staining as well. We do a wide range of jobs.”
In a stark contrast to being painter and business owner, Chris originally had his sights set on being an actor.
“I was advised by a few people that I should have a backup plan,” Chris said.
“I have never been an academic person, so going to university was never on the cards.’
“So, I looked beyond that and into trades.”
Chris was living and working in Ballarat after finishing high school and got a recommendation by his manager for a painting apprenticeship in Geelong.
“I was planning on moving to Geelong anyway. She put in a good word for me, I interviewed for it a week later and got the job,” Chris said.
“Everything fell into place.”
Sticking to targets
A keen user of making lists and sticking to them, Chris and his team have daily targets to guide them through a busy schedule.
“I like to stay on top of it all and make sure there’s a clear understanding of what needs to be done,” Chris said.
Mentors
Chris’s credits his first boss, Mick who owns Quest Painting, for looking out for him in his younger years.
“A couple of years into working for Mick, he decided to focus his business back in the Ballarat area,” Chris said.
“Mick gave me all his clients and encouraged me to go out on my own.”
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without him.”
Chris also credits his parents for creating a solid foundation for him, and also teaching him valuable life lessons.
Perseverance
Running a business, especially during a pandemic, is not always smooth sailing.
“The business took a bit of a hit financially a few years ago,” Chris said.
“Jobs blowing out, not sticking to budgets, and not quoting enough for jobs made me reevaluate a few things.”
Chris identifies cash flow as a consistent challenge.
Chris now employs one apprentice, and he enjoys teaching him the ropes.
For 2025, Chris is focussed on his young family, creating memories with his children, and camping around Australia.
“I love spending time with my kids and hanging out with my family and friends.”
“We’d love to see more parts of rural Australia.”
“Last year we went to Robe over Easter. Driving on the beach and setting up for the day, it was great. Definitely want to do more of that this year.”