On August 28, 2025, the Academy for Urban Scholars (AUS) High School and NCUS TEC campuses welcomed a special guest: Tom Burden, inventor of the Grypmat and a celebrated Shark Tank success story. The energy in the building was inspiring as students gathered to meet and hear from Burden, whose journey from Air Force mechanic to creating the Grypmat, a flexible tool mat now used worldwide, embodies innovation and perseverance.
Burden was greeted by Dr. Pamela Gregory, Co-Founder of NCUS, along with members of the communications team, before beginning his hands-on tour of the NCUS TEC campus. He explored the Advanced Manufacturing Lab, where he observed the machinery and 3D printing tools students use to bring their own designs to life. His next stop was the Fiber Optics classroom, where he joined the students mid-lesson, engaging with them about their projects and passions.
“I would love to be a student here to see this robotic arm and the 3D printers,” Burden shared after his tour, visibly impressed by the Academy’s hands-on programs and advanced technology.
During the tour, Dr. John Gregory, Co-Founder and CEO, also joined the visit to personally welcome Burden and share a few encouraging words with students. He emphasized the school’s commitment to connecting students with real-world innovators, thereby reinforcing the value of experiential learning and career technical education.
In collaboration with the communications department, Burden also gave an exclusive interview, where he opened up about the emotional side of entrepreneurship.
“Everyone around me believed in me and this idea; the problem was, I didn’t,” Burden shared. “Once I got over that, I had more momentum than ever.”
He spoke on the importance of finding internal validation over outside approval, adding,
“External validation is never a proper substitute for Internal Validation. When you can grow internal validation through reflection and sitting with yourself, that’s when real confidence builds.”
Later, Burden met with AUS High School students in a larger classroom setting. He shared his story, passed around the Grypmat for students to examine, and answered questions about his path to success. Speaking to the group, Burden encouraged them to recognize the unique advantage of their technical training.
“The value of what’s being taught in Career Tech centers is really undervalued,” he told the students. “When you realize the huge advantage you have over the rest of the workforce, you’re ten steps ahead.”
His message resonated deeply. Students shared afterward that they felt more confident about pursuing hands-on careers and creative projects. His openness about his challenges and victories helped students see that every idea, no matter how small, has the potential to make a real impact.
When asked what advice he would give to young inventors, his message was simple and powerful:
“To someone who is building an invention, I would tell them that something not being good enough is good enough.”
Burden’s visit ended with group and individual photos with students, leaving behind not just autographs and smiles, but a lingering motivation that will likely continue to shape how students dream and create. His visit reminded everyone present that innovation isn’t reserved for a select few; it starts with curiosity, courage, and belief.
A short recap video highlighting moments from Tom Burden’s visit is available on our Instagram and YouTube pages. Be sure to check it out and follow us for more stories of AUS and NCUS TEC’s impact on the community.
To learn more about how NCUS TEC and AUS High School are preparing students for careers in innovation and technology, visit AUS here and NCUS TEC here.
AUS and NCUS TEC extend a heartfelt thank you to Tom Burden for visiting our campuses and inspiring the next generation of innovators and creators.
