Meet the Team
Pillars of Valor Leadership Team
Behind every great mission stands a team driven by purpose. At Pillars of Valor, our people embody the same values found in those we serve — Honor. Courage. Impact. From combat-tested veterans to community leaders and industry professionals, each member brings a story of service, resilience, and unity.
We’re more than a coffee company. We’re a movement built on shared experiences and a commitment to give back — one cup, one connection, one mission at a time.
Zach Husted
Founder and Ceo
Courage. Honor. Impact.
Zach Husted is a seasoned marketer and combat-tested Air National Guard veteran who served 12 years and deployed four times to the Middle East. In those moments of chaos, he discovered how a simple cup of coffee could deliver comfort, connection, and peace. That truth became the foundation of Pillars of Valor.
Today, Zach leads with courage, serves with honor, and builds lasting impact—partnering to support veterans and first responders, and restoring pride, purpose, and balance in their lives. One meaningful cup at a time.
TJ Hockenson
Partner and Brand Ambasador
More than an elite athlete, TJ Hockenson is a purpose-driven leader with a deep respect for those who serve. Raised with strong Midwestern values and a profound appreciation for the military and first responders, TJ proudly joined Pillars of Valor to help carry out a mission rooted in service, unity, and impact. As a partner, he brings not only his platform but his heart—fueling a movement that gives back to those who’ve sacrificed, one mission-driven cup at a time.
Nick Lavery
Partner and Green Beret
Nick Lavery is the embodiment of resilience. As an active-duty Green Beret and the first above-the-knee amputee to return to combat operations, his story is one of grit, leadership, and purpose. At Pillars of Valor, Nick brings that same warrior spirit to inspire veterans to rise above adversity and rediscover their mission beyond the battlefield. His voice and presence remind us all: strength isn’t what you’re born with—it’s what you build.
Casey Maxted
Partner and Former Green Beret and Former FBI Agent
A former Green Beret and former FBI Special Agent, Casey Maxted has dedicated his life to service. From combat deployments with the 1st Special Forces Group to leading high-stakes investigations with the FBI, his mission has always been clear—protect and serve. At Pillars of Valor, Casey channels that same passion into helping veterans rediscover their purpose and find strength beyond the uniform.
Clay Garcia
Partner and Veteran and Current Fire Chief
Clay Garcia is a Navy Corpsman and fire service veteran who has dedicated his life to protecting others—on the battlefield and in his community. After serving alongside Marines as a Corpsman, Clay transitioned to the fire service, rising through the ranks to become a Fire Captain. At Pillars of Valor, Clay brings frontline leadership and a deep understanding of service to support veterans and first responders in finding strength, connection, and purpose beyond the call of duty.
Jen Wahl
Partner and Creative Director
With nearly 20 years of design experience, Jennifer Wahl brings a rare blend of creative vision and technical precision to every project. From branding and packaging to regulated medical device labeling, her work is as strategic as it is striking. As Creative Director for Pillars of Valor, Jennifer leads the brand’s visual storytelling—ensuring every design reflects its mission to serve veterans with purpose and heart.