Travis Boersma
Co-founder of Dutch Bros Coffee, the Pacific Northwest drive-thru coffee chain.
Travis Boersma's Bio
Travis Boersma co-founded Dutch Bros Coffee in 1992 alongside his brother Dane in Grants Pass, Oregon. What started as a single push cart selling espresso quickly grew into a regional phenomenon, driven by Travis's relentless focus on speed, consistency, and company culture.
Under his leadership, Dutch Bros pioneered the drive-thru-only model for specialty coffee, expanding across the West Coast and beyond. Travis became known for his hands-on approach, often working behind the counter alongside early employees and insisting on treating every customer like a neighbor.
In 2021, Travis transitioned from CEO to board member while Dane took the helm, a move that underscored the family-first ethos Travis built into the brand. The company remains privately held and continues to expand, with over 700 locations and a reputation for one of the industry's lowest turnover rates.
Travis's story is a hallmark of the How I Built This universe: starting small, prioritizing culture, and growing without losing the personal touch. His 2023 appearance on the Advice Line episode of How I Built This focused on scaling culture and hiring at speed.
Career Timeline
1992 — Co-founded Dutch Bros Coffee with brother Dane
Started as a single push cart in Grants Pass, Oregon selling espresso.
2004 — Opened first drive-thru location at Dutch Bros Coffee
Pioneered the drive-thru-only model for specialty coffee.
2015 — Named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year
Recognized for building one of the fastest-growing restaurant chains in the U.S.
2021 — Stepped down as CEO, remained board member
Transitioned leadership to brother Dane while staying on the board.
2023 — Appeared on How I Built This: The Advice Line
Joined Guy Raz to discuss scaling culture and hiring at speed.
