Bill Gardner

Originally from Chicago, Bill came with his family to Charlotte in 1969. While attending the local community college, he took a part time position as a press operator trainee at a local printer, where he advanced quickly. After studying economics at UNC Charlotte, he came away with the urge to start his own business. In 1983, he and David Pitts, friend and printing co-worker, borrowed $15,000 from family and began Classic Graphics. While things got started, he worked a part-time job as a Piedmont Airlines gate agent from 5-10pm, often returning after his shift to run jobs into the morning hours. “Our staff (4 people) worked around the clock to make Classic Graphics a success.” Through Classic, he has supported team sports (which he credits with the development of his discipline, team spirit and perseverance), educational facilities and his community. Bill’s entrepreneurial spirit has led him to be a land owner and active supporter of the preservation of the New River through NCNR.  With all of his accomplishments, Bill is best known for his charismatic personality and giving nature. Everyone has a story about Bill. He’s a creative thinker who is technically oriented, knowing how every piece of equipment works and how each job is produced. He’s a strong believer in continuous improvement, hard work and moving forward.

David Pitts

Born in Munich while his father was in the U.S. Military, David bounced around the States until his family finally settled in Bowling Green, Kentucky in 1969. Through a high school teacher, he became interested in printing, and earned statewide recognition for his work in Vocational Industrial Clubs of America. David’s desire to study civil engineering brought him to UNC Charlotte and the need to supplement the cost led him to accept a position with the same printer where Bill Gardner worked. The coworkers soon became friends. Through the friendship, Classic Graphics was born–and David took a second shift job as a press operator to keep things going. “It was difficult during those days,” recalls David. They developed their business ethics early, declining work from his and Bill’s former employers, even though they desperately needed clients. “For six months Bill and I did everything at Classic and we each held part-time jobs.” David’s passion for technological advances has served Classic well, keeping it positioned as an industry leader. He’s also served on the Board of Directors and as Chairperson of PICA, the Carolinas' printing industry association. David currently serves on the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee of the National Association for Printing Leadership. Today he and Bill remain hands-on participants in Classic's ongoing success.