Bill Fuller
About this Executive:
Name:
Bill Fuller
Company:
Akron Polymer Systems
Interview Topics:
Polymers and Advanced Materials
Region:
Region 9 - Northeast Ohio
Akron Polymer Systems Inc. (APS) is a great example of a company successfully commercializing a cutting-edge technology in an industry that is a core strength for the state of Ohio: advanced materials. The company was founded in 2002 for the purpose of developing and marketing high performance polymers, and has been developing materials that can be used for aerospace, fuel cells, optical and photonic, and medical device applications. The company's affiliation with the University of Akron has facilitated collaboration on projects between the University and APS.
APS's CEO, Dr. Frank Harris, has extensive experience in synthesis, characterization and commercialization of high performance polymer systems. One of his technologies invented while working at the University of Akron is used to improve the viewing angle and image quality on LCD televisions. This patented technology is currently on the market and is the dominant technology used.
I had the opportunity to speak with Bill Fuller, who recently joined APS as vice president of business development. In my talk with Bill, I wanted to learn a bit more about Ohio as a choice location for entrepreneurs.
Q: Bill, why is Ohio a great place for a polymer company like APS to start up?
A: It is fairly well known that the polymer industry is one of Ohio's largest and most important industries. It includes more than 2,800 companies and more than 140,000 employees. The industry generates approximately $50 billion in annual revenues and more than $5 billion in salaries for its workers. When I learned how deep the industry was in Ohio, it made my decision to join APS even easier.
Q: APS does cutting edge work in optical film technology. Are people surprised when you tell them the company is based in Ohio?
A: A little. But, inside the industry Dr. Harris and other people at APS are well known for their commercialized technologies, published research and patents. Most of our staff came from the University of Akron, which has an outstanding reputation in the field.
Also, Northeast Ohio really has a critical mass of research and companies commercializing optical devices. With the research at the University of Akron in polymers and Kent State in liquid crystals, it's really makes sense for us to be located in this area.
Q: Are you able to find the talent you need to effectively compete?
A: There is an excellent professional community in Ohio that we tap into. There are a number of managers with technology start-up experience and of course we have a strong connection with the University of Akron for our researchers. In essence there is a lot of good talent in Ohio for investors interested in starting businesses and for entrepreneurial managers who want to take an early stage technology company to commercial success. I think if you take a close look at Ohio, it becomes obvious there's a low cost structure, plenty of skilled talent and a business climate conducive for success. Ohio may be one of the best-kept secrets in the entrepreneurial world.
Q: We promise executives that in Ohio they can achieve professional success in the broader context of a fulfilling life. Does this promise seem authentic based on your experience?
A: It does. I used to live in Cary, North Carolina and worked in Research Triangle Park. My commute was 11 miles, but it took me about an hour to complete each way. The issue was lack of infrastructure and so everything was always crowded - roads, restaurants, you name it. Also, Ohio offers established communities rich with culture, diversity, character and good school systems. There are one-of-a-kind places to find in every neighborhood, fantastic park systems, pro-sports teams and it's easy to get from place to place.
Q: It sounds like you enjoy the choices Ohio has to offer, and you have the time to take advantage of the opportunities.
A: I think a positive work:life balance is huge and it's an important part of my personal core values. I have two young children and a long commute didn't leave me the quality time I wanted to spend with them. Ohio also offers tons of interesting ways for families to spend that time together. Everything is close and affordable. There are cultural options like museums, concerts and plays; and there are outdoor opportunities like state parks and the Lake Erie shoreline. Being an avid mountain biker, Ohio offers excellent trails that are accessible and not overcrowded.