Meet our team
Bryan Orr
Co-founder
Bryan Orr, father of ten, is the co-founder of GRIT Foundation.
As president of Kalos Services and founder of HVAC-School Bryan leverages decades of experience in the skilled trades to promote and inspire the next generation of workers.
Ruchir Shah
Co-founder
Ruchir Shah, co-founder of GRIT is the founder of SkillCat, an online training app for the skilled trades that has helped over 300,000 students. Ruchir, a four-time entrepreneur, holds a degree in engineering from Rice University and an MBA from Stanford Business School.
Leilani Orr
Executive Director
Leilani Orr, Executive Director at GRIT, a home-school educator for 20+ years, events coordinator & volunteer at Kalos Services is heavily involved in the community and building partnerships with others to help bridge the gap of skilled workers in the USA.
Ty Branaman
Head of Training
Ty Branaman, head of training at GRIT, brings 30 years of HVAC experience, from apprentice to business owner. A Certified Master HVAC Educator, Ty is passionate about helping others succeed in the trades. With expertise in traditional, online, hybrid, and field training, he uses a variety of methods to empower individuals to thrive in their careers.
About Us
At GRIT Foundation, we are on a mission to empower the next generation with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities to thrive in the skilled trades. Who else is better to share this with youth than skilled trades professionals themselves. We believe that a rewarding career in the trades is a pathway to personal growth, and long-term success — without the burden of overwhelming college debt.
Our Vision
The skilled trades have long shaped the world we live in—and the people who master them carry knowledge worth passing on. GRIT exists to honor that.
Through GRIT Camps and workshops, tradespeople become mentors, guiding students through real tools, real questions, and real experiences. Using the Socratic method and a hands-on approach, we create spaces where curiosity sparks, skills are shared, and the next generation discovers the power and pride found in the trades.
Why Choose Trades?
Inspiring Hands-On Learning
GRIT partners with contractors, educators, and industry experts to spark curiosity and creativity through real-world, hands-on experiences in the skilled trades.
Building Practical Skills
Trades like HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing, and Carpentry give participants the chance to work with tools, solve problems, and gain confidence through doing — not just observing.
Accessible Opportunities for All
We believe everyone should have the chance to learn a trade. GRIT focuses on creating inclusive, community-driven events that make hands-on learning open and approachable for all ages.