Business Details
33 Years
experience
Expert Residential Painting Services by College Works
College Works has been transforming homes and developing future business leaders through its unique student-run painting services since 1993. Our innovative model empowers college students to gain real-world entrepreneurial experience while delivering high-quality residential painting solutions backed by comprehensive training and industry-leading standards. With operations across 13 Midwest states and a proven track record of serving over 80,000 homes, we combine meticulous preparation, premium materials, and rigorous quality control to ensure lasting results. Our program has trained more than 25,000 emerging leaders who consistently achieve 90% post-graduation employment rates and 85% earning $75K+ within five years.We maintain unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction through our standard and extended warranty protections, while fostering a culture of service leadership through community initiatives like free painting services for families in need. Our dual focus on professional development and home improvement creates value for homeowners, students, and employers alike, with 750+ interns annually benefiting from hands-on business management experience under professional mentorship.
Services
Exterior painting
Interior painting
Color consultation
Deck staining
Warranty-backed services
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of experience transforming homes and developing business leaders
- 80,000+ homes painted with meticulous preparation and premium materials
- Warranty-backed services guarantee lasting quality and customer satisfaction
- Student-run businesses deliver professional results while gaining real-world experience
- Community-focused initiatives supporting families in need through free services
What people say
Professional and did an awesome job
Quality painting was as good as any
Excellent communication and professionalism
Meticulous and professional work
Transformed our home with great results
Services
Exterior painting
Our exterior painting services transform homes with meticulous surface preparation and premium-grade paints. Student professionals receive comprehensive training in siding, trim, and deck painting techniques, ensuring durable, color-fast results that enhance property value. Each project includes detailed color consultation and warranty-backed workmanship.
Interior painting
We deliver professional interior painting solutions for residential and commercial spaces. Our student teams handle wall, ceiling, and trim painting with precision, using top-quality materials and proper surface preparation techniques. Projects include color matching assistance and come with standard warranty protection for lasting satisfaction.
Color consultation
Our color consultation service helps homeowners select optimal paint schemes for both interior and exterior spaces. Student managers provide expert guidance on color coordination, offering digital visualization tools and paint samples to ensure perfect matches with existing architectural elements and personal preferences.
Deck staining
We specialize in deck staining and waterproofing services that restore outdoor living spaces. Our process includes thorough surface preparation, wood rot repair, and application of premium sealants that protect against weather damage while enhancing natural wood aesthetics with long-lasting results.
Warranty-backed services
All our painting services include comprehensive warranty protection covering both materials and workmanship. This commitment to quality ensures homeowners receive lasting results with the assurance of post-project support, reflecting our confidence in the training and professionalism of our student teams.
People
Matthew Stewart
Chief Executive Officer & Chairman
Co-founder of National Services Group, Matthew directs College Works' strategic vision. With entrepreneurial awards and media appearances, he champions student development and purpose-driven business practices across 13 states.
Sean Phelps
President
Leading daily operations since 2004, Sean oversees training and expansion across Midwest regions. He mentors hundreds of interns annually, generating over $40 million in revenue while maintaining quality standards for residential services.
Joe Norwell
Vice President
Managing Midwest operations from Illinois to Michigan, Joe focuses on student mentorship and career preparation. He transitioned from intern to leadership role, emphasizing professional development alongside quality painting services.
Jack Kratcha
Vice President
Leading Northwoods region operations, Jack brings finance expertise and multiple Manager of the Year awards. He trains student teams in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa while maintaining high service standards for residential projects.
Jeff Gunhus
Executive Officer
Co-founder and bestselling author Jeff oversees National Services Group operations. With decades of entrepreneurial experience, he combines business leadership with literary achievements while mentoring student professionals nationwide.
Questions
What residential painting services do you offer?
We provide comprehensive exterior and interior painting services including siding, trim, decks, and fences. Our student professionals handle color consultation, surface preparation, and warranty-backed finishing for both residential and commercial properties.
How can I request a free estimate?
Complete our online form to receive a free, no-obligation estimate. A student manager will contact you to schedule a consultation and provide detailed pricing information within 24-48 hours.
Do you offer warranty protection?
Yes, all our painting services come with standard warranty protection. We also offer extended warranty options for added peace of mind, covering both workmanship and materials.
How does your student internship program work?
Our Student Professional Program trains college students to run their own painting businesses. Participants receive hands-on business management experience, mentorship from industry professionals, and develop leadership skills while delivering quality home improvement services.
What areas do you serve?
We operate across 13 Midwest states including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma, and Wisconsin, with headquarters in Irvine, California.
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