16th Anniversary

Sweet 16. And just getting started.

When we meet new people and tell them we’re designers, many try to box us in. Graphic designers, they think, while overlooking that it’s so much deeper.While graphics are certainly a part of the mix, there’s so much more to it.

Yes, it’s how you look. But it’s also what you say and how you say it. How you make people feel. How design works in service to people.

It was a wild idea when Bill and I decided to launch FUEL. And it could never have happened without the help from countless people — both front and center and behind the scenes.

Early on, during our struggle to get things rolling, the two of us quickly discovered there were people out there that wanted us to succeed just as much as we did.

To them, it was more than supporting a fledgling design firm in Eastern Iowa. They recognized our mission was something bigger. Especially in the way our work could be a true difference-maker for companies in the state. And in turn, make a positive impact on the lives of countless families in the process.

That’s pushed us forward through many challenges, and helped us appreciate the good every time it’s blessed our presence.

Now, over a decade-and-a-half into this “little experiment”, we feel like we’re aging well.While some members have grown up with us, the team has some new faces — and with them, new ideas and ways of looking at the world. All of which adds to the fun and sense of wonder about the job we’re privileged to do each day.Looking ahead, we’re going to continue to stay true to our Midwestern roots and mission.

Work our tails off.

Be courteous, honest and kind.

Take care of people with the trust that, by doing so, they’ll take care of you.

It will be the same tomorrow as it was on Day One. And it’s rewarded us with an incredible team that comes to work each day for all the right reasons.

Along with a list of clients that’s a treat to serve.

Thank you for 16 wonderful years.

Let’s do 16 more.

— John

Bill Bollman
Creative Director

Bill Bollman is FUEL’s Creative Director. Before co-founding FUEL in 2001, he worked for Horizon Communications, JW Morton and Basler Design Group. Bill studied Illustration at Hawkeye Tech in Waterloo, Iowa. An expert in the “old ways” of hands-on print production, these skills influence his work in the digital world to this day. His work throughout his career has been featured in international publications including Graphis, How International Design, Communication Arts, and The One Book as well as numerous design annuals and reference books.

Hometown: West Union, Iowa
Involved in Design and Marketing since 1988
Interests: Fitness, Travel, Movies