Meet Nilson Cuello Hernandez, a Chilean-born painter who transformed his career and life in Australia through completing his Certificate III in Painting and Decorating at Orange College. His decision to study at Orange College proved to be a turning point in his career. 

Nilson arrived in Melbourne in 2018, leaving behind his career as a physical education teacher in Chile. After working various jobs, including dishwashing on Hamilton Island, a chance encounter with a Polish painter ignited his passion for the trade. After doing a few painting jobs, Nilson realised that he really enjoyed painting and enrolled at Orange College to get a professional qualification, with the intention of pursuing a career in Australia as a painter.  

“I was recommended to study at Orange College as it was convenient and had a path for permanent residency in the future,” Nilson explains. Nilson was impressed by the college’s facilities, particularly the ability to train on a wide range of surfaces and mediums. “I love that they have example houses for training. 80% of the work you learn on site, but here you can learn in a safe environment,” he says. The ventilator for spray painting skills and the comprehensive tool warehouse further enhanced his learning experience. 

During his time at Orange College, Nilson completed his Certificate III in Painting and Decorating, gaining valuable skills and knowledge. “Definitely now I have a lot more skills and knowledge about what’s important on site,” he reflects. The course not only honed his existing painting skills but also introduced him to new techniques and industry standards. 

Nilson’s success story truly began to unfold after his graduation in November 2024. Since then, he has completed two houses on his own and has become the lead painter for a local builder. His expertise has even led him to prestigious projects, such as painting the Aperol and Canadian Club stands at the Australian Open and Australian Formula One events.

“Now I can be the lead painter, and can do everything and have another person who helps me,” Nilson proudly states. His Instagram account (@nn_painting.deco) showcases his impressive portfolio of work, demonstrating the practical application of his Orange College education.

Although Nilson is now a successful graduate, he has chosen to continue his studies with Orange College. Currently pursuing his Certificate IV in Building and Construction, Nilson continues to expand his skillset and career prospects. His journey from a physical education teacher in Chile to a successful painter in Australia is a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and quality education.

To current students and recent graduates, Nilson offers this advice: “Get as professional as possible and study and get the knowledge. If you like the thing that you do, it’s probably not a hard job.”

Nilson’s story exemplifies how Orange College can help students excel in their chosen fields, providing them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in the competitive Australian job market.