We Are Balance Studios

The World Has Changed.
Our Foundation Hasn't.

For 25 years, Balance Studios has helped organizations
transform ideas into experiences people remember.

We've seen technologies evolve, industries transform, and audiences redefine how they connect with the world around them. Through it all, our approach has remained remarkably consistent: listen first, collaborate deeply, solve creatively, and make the client the hero.

Built on partnership and driven by possibility, we work side-by-side with our clients to solve problems, tell stories, teach lessons, launch products, and create experiences that connect people with ideas.

Sometimes that means an interactive exhibit. Sometimes it's animation, film, an application, educational tools, or something entirely new.

Founded in De Pere, Wisconsin on September 11, 2001, Balance Studios was built on a simple belief: talented people working together can accomplish extraordinary things.

We believe in listening before solving. Collaboration before ego. Hard work before shortcuts. And never losing sight of the people we're here to serve.

For us, success isn't measured by pixels, hardware, or headlines. It's measured by what people feel. What they discover. What they remember long after the experience ends.

Our mission has never changed: make the client the hero.

Balance Studios team at work Balance Studios team at work Balance Studios team at work

Partnership

Great work is built together.

Every project benefits from diverse perspectives, open dialogue, and a willingness to solve challenges as a team. We value long-term relationships and believe the best results come from shared ownership, mutual respect, and a common goal.

Creativity

Creativity is more than imagination—it's problem solving.

It helps us simplify the complex, uncover new possibilities, and find unexpected ways to connect with audiences. It allows us to see beyond what's expected and imagine what could be.

Purposeful Innovation

We've never been content with "good enough."

We believe in exploring, experimenting, and continually learning. That mindset has inspired original tools, technologies, and approaches throughout our history—not because innovation was the goal, but because a better answer was waiting to be found. It all starts with a simple question: "What if there was a better way?"

Integrity

Trust is earned through actions, not promises.

We believe in accountability, transparency, and doing what we say we'll do. Whether facing a challenge or celebrating a success, we approach every project with honesty, respect, and a commitment to excellence.

Darren Lutz

Darren Lutz

Co-Founder | Creative Director

Tina Lutz

Tina Lutz

Co-Founder | President

Since co-founding Balance Studios in 2001, Tina has helped grow the company from a small creative studio into a nationally recognized experiential media firm. Equal parts visionary and producer, she leads the company's strategic direction while helping clients navigate complex projects with confidence, creativity, and a practical approach to problem solving. She is passionate about building lasting relationships, empowering her team, and creating an environment where great ideas can thrive.

Brett Nooyen

Brett Nooyen

Vice President of Application Development

For two decades, Brett has helped shape the technical foundation of Balance Studios. As Vice President of Application Development, he transforms ambitious ideas into intuitive, reliable applications while helping clients navigate the technical side of complex projects with confidence.

Known for his calm, methodical approach, Brett has a knack for solving the problems that don't have obvious answers. Whether architecting custom software, integrating complex systems, or exploring new technologies, he enjoys tackling challenges that push the boundaries of what's possible.

Heidi Klessig

Heidi Klessig

Vice President of Client Relations

For nearly two decades, Heidi has been helping clients navigate the creative process with confidence and clarity. As Vice President of Client Relations, she builds lasting partnerships by listening first, asking thoughtful questions, and ensuring every client feels informed, supported, and engaged from the first conversation through the final launch.

Known for her positive energy and natural ability to connect with people, Heidi has a talent for translating complex ideas into clear conversations. She believes great relationships are built on trust, communication, and making every client feel like an extension of the Balance team.

John Hackman

John Hackman

Art Director | Animation Specialist

For nearly two decades, John has helped shape the creative vision behind Balance Studios' work. As Art Director, he transforms ideas into compelling visual experiences, combining artistic talent with a deep understanding of storytelling, design, and audience engagement. Whether developing characters, storyboards, environments, or immersive experiences, John has an exceptional ability to bring clarity, emotion, and imagination to every project.

Known for his collaborative spirit and meticulous attention to detail, John believes the strongest visual solutions are the ones that make complex ideas feel natural, engaging, and memorable.

Eric Mikula

Eric Mikula

Senior Application Developer

For more than 13 years, Eric has been transforming ambitious ideas into interactive experiences that blur the line between the digital and physical worlds. As Lead Application Developer, he specializes in creating custom applications, immersive environments, and technology-driven experiences that seamlessly combine software, hardware, and storytelling.

Known for his inventive mindset and passion for emerging technologies, Eric enjoys tackling challenges that don't have obvious solutions. Whether developing custom interactive systems, integrating new technologies, or building entirely new ways for people to engage with an experience, he's always asking, "What else is possible?"

Karol David

Karol David

Multidisciplinary Artist

For more than 12 years, Karol has brought creativity, versatility, and craftsmanship to Balance Studios' creative team. Equally comfortable designing stylized characters, realistic environments, 3D models, animations, and interactive assets, she has a unique ability to adapt her artistic style to meet the needs of each project while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.

Known for her collaborative spirit and passion for continual learning, Karol enjoys exploring new creative possibilities and expanding her artistic skillset. Whether creating whimsical worlds, realistic visualizations, or the countless details in between, she brings imagination, precision, and heart to every project.

Scott Tuinstra

Scott Tuinstra

Associate Creative Director

Scott has a natural instinct for seeing how people experience the world around them. By blending storytelling, design, and user experience, he creates intuitive experiences that connect naturally with audiences.

Known for his thoughtful approach and unwavering attention to detail, Scott is always refining ideas, improving the user journey, and discovering creative solutions that elevate every project. His philosophy is simple: “never settle for less”. It's a mindset that inspires both his work and the teams he collaborates with.

Amelia Pawula

Amelia Pawula

Quality Assurance Analyst | Production Assistant

Amelia has a sharp eye for detail and a genuine commitment to getting things right. As Quality Assurance Analyst and Production Assistant, she helps ensure every application and interactive experience is thoroughly tested, reliable, and ready for launch. Her meticulous approach gives both the team and our clients confidence that every detail has been thoughtfully considered.

Known for her patience and persistence, Amelia has a knack for uncovering the little things that others might overlook. She believes quality isn't about perfection—it's about taking the time to make every experience the best it can be.

Craig Balke

Craig Balke

Project Manager

Craig believes great projects are built on great communication. As Project Manager, he keeps clients and production teams connected, ensuring ideas stay aligned, expectations remain clear, and every project moves forward with confidence.

Known for his approachable style and steady communication, Craig brings people together around a common goal. From kickoff through launch, he helps create a collaborative environment where questions are answered, challenges are addressed, and everyone stays focused on delivering the best possible experience.

Zane Brown

Zane Brown

Application Developer

Zane has quickly become an integral part of the Balance Studios team, bringing enthusiasm, curiosity, and a natural talent for solving technical challenges. As an Application Developer, he helps create interactive applications and immersive experiences while continually expanding his skills and embracing new technologies.

Known for his positive attitude and eagerness to learn, Zane approaches every project with determination and an open mind. His ability to grow quickly, adapt to new challenges, and contribute beyond his years has made him an invaluable member of the team and an exciting part of Balance's future.

Ready to Bring Your Ideas to Life?

We'd love to hear about your project and explore how immersive technology can bring your vision to life.

Contact Us