The entire Vertical Immersive team works together toward one goal: To immerse our students in a Kingdom mindset; cultivating and inspiring future leaders towards purposeful living. From your first contact with us all the way to graduation and beyond, you’ll be supported, challenged, and empowered by a group of dedicated professionals striving to prepare you for immeasurably more!

Meet Our Staff & Facilitators

Brian Wheeler

Chief Vision Officer

Brian paints the vision for what God will do in and through our students as they participate in our program. He helps them develop mindsets that will change the trajectory of their lives through interactive conversations and experiences in different settings together, throughout their time at Vertical Immersive.

“This is something God put on my heart, an act of obedience, to nurture and cultivate the next generation of servant leaders for His Kingdom.”

Kaitlyn Smith

Chief Operations Officer

Kaitlyn’s involvement with students begins even before they officially join the program and continues all the way through their graduation. She provides support in a variety of areas, including recruiting, answering questions about finances, curriculum, and schedules, and ensuring students are set up for success. Kaitlyn assists with the logistics of field trips, retreats, and day-to-day operations to create a seamless and impactful experience. For parents, she serves as a resource, answering any questions they may have along the way.

“I chose to work with Vertical Immersive because I am passionate about its mission to equip young adults with faith-based tools, practical skills, and a sense of purpose as they transition into the workforce. This program is unique in its approach, blending immersive learning with spiritual and leadership growth. Being part of an organization that transforms lives and helps shape future leaders is fulfilling and aligns perfectly with my values.”

Susan Rozzi

Director of Leadership Development

Susan works directly with students each week as she facilitates our Leadership Development courses and provides one-on-one coaching as needed, utilizing her experience in entrepreneurship, business, and communications. She works closely with facilitators and staff to ensure that key leadership skills and Vertical values are reinforced throughout all classes and events.

"I believe God led me to Vertical Immersive because it is a place that I can use my skills and contribute to the kingdom of God. The work we do is important because we are preparing our students to be intentional in how they live for God.”

Tom Dillow

Director of Programming

Tom leads the design, stewardship, and continual elevation of the Vertical Immersive student experience. He ensures that every element of the program—curriculum, leadership development, spiritual growth, and community culture—is aligned with our mission to form Christ-centered leaders who impact the world.

”All aspects of learning at VI are built on Christian discipleship and worldview. Being a Christian is far beyond having correct beliefs or knowing the Christian responses to political issues of the day. Being a disciple of Christ is a process of change and, if intentionally pursued, will become a part of all aspects of life - not just church and family, but also friends, work, and purpose. VI strives to walk with the students and foster their discipleship as the foundation for their education.”

Carinne Terry

Executive Assistant

Carinne is in communication with incoming students and their parents during the application process, and throughout their time at Vertical Immersive. Carinne is involved in planning events, managing the day to day on campus, and she accompanies students on field trips. If you have a question about what’s going on, Carinne probably has the answer!

“I choose to work at Vertical Immersive because I love the environment. I have worked for other organizations that have had Christian founders, or are even Christian based businesses, and have never felt as though there was any difference from a secular workplace, until working here.”

Shelby Cadwell

Ambassador of Homeschool

You’ll likely meet Shelby when you come in for a tour, or connect with her at a local college fair or homeschool event. Shelby runs our Homeschool Makers Market, introducing youth to entrepreneurship and facilitating real world small business experience. Shelby has a passion for helping young adults and parents find alternative educational opportunities that provide a strong foundation for a life of service in Christ.

“I was praying about an opportunity to use my gifts and the Lord showed me very clearly that Vertical Immersive was the place for me. I was excited about working with the homeschool community and getting them connected to an organization that shared a similar vision for an alternative to traditional school choices.”

Classes are taught by instructors who are working professionals in their respective fields. Small class sizes allow for meaningful and energetic conversation. Curriculum is designed to give students the skills they will need to be successful in their project work and apprenticeships, no matter what their calling is.