ML grad paints a bright future with internship
Although he just graduated from Mt. Lebanon High School last year, Zach Wolfe is already running his own business.
A sophomore computer engineering major at Penn State University-Main Campus, Wolfe was accepted into a manager's internship position with College Works Painting, a national student painter's company that operates in 19 states. He began his position in February and is now nearing the top 20 percent in sales in Pennsylvania. "I'm interested in computer engineering, and knowledge of business can be a major part of it," he said. Wolfe's focus is on marketing his business and hiring employees for what should be a very busy summer. He hopes to make enough money to avoid taking out loans for his next semester at PSU, and is more than halfway to his goal. To solicit customers, Wolfe and his team of marketers typically go door-to-door in Mt. Lebanon, South Hills, Sewickley and Ben Avon, but can go anywhere in Allegheny County. Securing solicitor permits was one obstacle the 19-year-old faced. He's learned, however, to use his time wisely and book appointments for estimates over the phone while waiting for permits to be approved. "My mother, who is a sales trainer, taught me that you can't just be a pushy salesman. You have to find the need and fill the need in a polite and courteous manner," he said. "I don't want people saying 'no' so I find the ones that really need our product. They are more apt to say 'yes.'" To be selected for the branch manager internship position, Wolfe and hundreds of other students had to endure an intense interview process. Founded in 1993, the College Works Painting program gives students an opportunity to build a competitive resume and gain marketable leadership skills. CWP helps university students develop, implement and illustrate a strong work ethic, strong communication skills, effective organizational management skills, powerful sales skills, and an overall understanding of the mechanics of leadership that can be applied to any profession. College Works Painting hires more than 2,000 college students each year in 19 states throughout the U.S. To learn more, visit http://www.collegeworkspainting.com.