Meet the Team
Built by People Who Believe in the Mission
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.
We don’t lead for attention. We lead for outcomes.
Built by People Who Understand Service
Our leadership team is made up of veterans, first responders, and purpose-driven builders who believe business should do more than generate revenue.
We’ve lived the mission.
We carry it forward—together.
Direct Support
Focused on experiences, resources, and moments that restore purpose and connection.
Measurable Impact
We share where funds go and what they create—so supporters can see the difference.
Community First
Built with and for those who serve—veterans, first responders, and the families behind them.
Zach Husted
Founder & CEO | Pillars of Valor
Zach Husted is the founder of Pillars of Valor and a 12-year Air National Guard veteran with multiple deployments in support of both overseas and domestic missions.
After years in marketing and brand leadership, Zach built Pillars of Valor to unite people through coffee while creating real, lasting support for veterans, first responders, and their families. His belief is simple: service deserves more than recognition — it deserves continued connection and purpose.
Through Pillars of Valor and the Pillars of Valor Foundation, Zach focuses on building a brand rooted in integrity, accountability, and impact that can be measured — not just claimed.
Casey Maxted
Partner | Former Green Beret | Former FBI Agent
A former Green Beret and former FBI Special Agent, Casey Maxted has dedicated his life to service.
Clay Garcia
Partner | Veteran | 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.
Tyler Grout
Partner | Veteran | Entrepreneur
Tyler Grout is an Army veteran from southeast Iowa who served as a combat engineer and, after returning from deployment, wrestled with the transition to civilian life before channeling his discipline into business and personal growth. He became involved in his family’s business, helping it expand while also mentoring and supporting fellow veterans in their entrepreneurial journeys, reflecting his commitment to service, leadership, and purpose.
TJ Hockenson
Partner | Brand Ambassador
More than an elite athlete, TJ Hockenson is a purpose-driven leader with a deep respect for those who serve.
Nick Lavery
Partner | 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.