Samuel Shedden

Car Painting

• Region Sydney West
• WorldSkills Accolade 2025 National Bronze Medal
• Employer Parramatta Smash Repairs
• Training Institute TAFE NSW Campbelltown
• Local Trainer / Mentor Carl Tinsley
• International Expert Paul Polverino - Axalta Coating Systems
• Supported by TAFE NSW
  

“My Dad and I built my first car together when I was 14. I helped the painter when he was spraying the car, and it sparked my interest in the trade.”

Apprentice Spray Painter, Samuel Shedden simply loves cars. When he’s not working full time refinishing them at Parramatta Smash Repairs, he’s working on them with his dad and friends. “I love fixing and restoring them. Driving them once they’re finished is such a rewarding feeling.”

He chose Spray Painting as he enjoyed learning a different side of the Automotive Industry. “Considering no one in my family is a painter, I decided to give it a go.”

Samuel’s WorldSkills journey started with a first-place finish at Regionals. He then went on to secure Bronze at the 2025 National Championships. “I felt both nervous and excited at all times but kept my composure the whole way through and performed to the best of my abilities.

The biggest challenge Samuel faced in the competition was balancing training with his full time job, but his employer has been nothing but supportive. “My workplace understands what this opportunity means to me. I have as much time as I need to train and sharpen my skill set.”

He also learnt quite a bit from them. “My boss, Peter has taught me so much about my trade as well as life in general. He gives great advice.”

Samuel is keen to extend his thanks to others as well. “My TAFE NSW teacher Carl has helped me the whole way through, always believing in me. I couldn’t have done it without the support of my family and friends, especially my beautiful girlfriend, Lauren.”

Samuel’s future wishes centre on buying his own home, travelling and of course, continuing to work on cars. But he’s looking to make an automotive industry impact too. “I’d love to encourage young people around the world to give a trade a go. You never know where it will land you, or what opportunities it will open up.”

Three words that describe you – Determined, Devoted, Adaptable

Car Painting Team

Expert: Paul Polverino – Axalta Coating Systems

Samuel Shedden is supported by: