Ricky Mason is the founder and chief executive officer of BrainSTEM University, an education tech startup that provides in-person and online Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education. In 2021, his company built out a ‘Metaversity’ — the first of its kind anywhere — where students can engage with their classmates and teachers in a 3D virtual learning environment.

However, to launch the program, Mason needed additional financial support to get it off the ground. One of his earliest backers and investors was Republic Bank, who provided funding through the Community Loan Fund to hire a chief product officer, David Miller, with over 25 years of experience in 3D design and animation. With the bank’s continued support, the program has become a massive success and is continuing to grow, making Louisville a launching point for the future of virtual education and technology.

BrainSTEM University and its metaverse are only the latest ventures Mason has added to his litany of professional, technological, and humanistic accomplishments. He is also the founder of Kentucky AgriTech, a company specializing in developing IOT, Artificial Intelligence, and Blockchain technology for agriculture. He is one of eight board members appointed by the Louisville Metro Mayor to help govern the Metropolitan Sewer District’s annual budget, rates, policies and initiatives. He has also been involved in projects with the CIA, NASA and the Department of Defense.

Mason is heavily involved in his community, providing lectures on entrepreneurship, and mentoring the next generation through his local church. He is also a youth coach with the NFL Flag Football League.

For more information about Mason and his work with BrainSTEM, visit www.brainstemu.com or follow Ricky on social media at @RickyMason502.