Meet the Team Behind the Beans
Zach Husted - Veteran & Founder / CEO
Zach Husted is more than a seasoned marketer—he’s a combat-tested Air National Guard veteran driven by purpose. After 12 years of service and four deployments to the Middle East, Zach saw firsthand how a simple cup of coffee could offer more than warmth—it could create connection, comfort, and a moment of peace in the chaos. That belief became the heartbeat of Pillars of Valor. Today, Zach leads with a mission to serve those who’ve served us—building partnerships that support veterans and first responders, and restoring a sense of purpose, pride, and balance in their lives. One meaningful cup at a time.
TJ Hockenson - Partner & Ambassador
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.
Casey Maxted - Partner, Veteran & LEO
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.
Jennifer Wahl - Partner & Creative Designer
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.
Clay Garcia - Partner, Veteran & First Responder
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.
Nick Lavery - Partner, Active Green Beret & Partner
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.