ABOUT
Thomas
Thomas Shantler was born in Western, New York. While growing up, Thomas traveled the world competing at a high level in alpine ski racing. This led him to Plymouth State University in New Hampshire where he graduated with a B.S in Business Admin while skiing for their NCAA Division One ski team. Thomas was given the opportunity to run his own painting branch through an internship in 2019. He fell in love with painting and entrepreneurship after his internship. He then went on to co-found Gould Painting WNY in 2020. Taking on a big responsibility at such a young age taught Thomas professionalism, willpower, and independence. While Thomas is not working he enjoys spending time with his family and friends and is a strong advocate for Buffalo having the best food!
ABOUT
Elijah
Elijah Zells was born and raised in Western New York where he grew up in the Village of Williamsville. He went on to graduate from SUNY Fredonia in Business Marketing and Communication. Elijah has always found communication valuable which has helped him to create strong relationships within his entrepreneurial career. Elijah has been blessed with the opportunity to grow up with 6 siblings, five being sisters and there’s a lot to be said about that. This has taught him to have respect for other people’s space and opinions, the willingness to help, and to be bold. But also skills such as time management, organization, and being able to speak up for yourself. The level of resilience he has is reflective of the type of work he brings to Buffalo, what Buffalolians strive to be. In his spare time, Elijah loves watching and supporting Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills.