The Team
The Gear Shift Foundation (GSF) is led by professionals who believe that relationships, opportunity, and exposure can change the trajectory of a person's life.
Norman Livingston Kerr
Founder & CEO
Norman brings more than three decades of experience in social services, mental health, government, community development, nonprofit leadership, workforce development, and violence prevention.
Throughout his career, Norman has focused on building programs and systems that create opportunities for people and communities. GSF combines that commitment with his lifelong interest in automobiles and belief that cars can become a powerful vehicle—literally and figuratively—for engaging people who may not connect with traditional workforce programs.
His vision for GSF is simple:
Don't tell people what they should become. Give them opportunities to discover what they can become.
Luiz Hernandez
Automotive Restoration Project Manager
Luis represents exactly what GSF hopes to create for others.
At one point, Luis wasn't certain what direction he wanted his career to take. He reluctantly entered mechanic school and discovered an interest and talent that ultimately created a new pathway.
Today, Luis helps manage the sourcing and restoration of vehicles for BBF. In addition, he is a phenomenal mechanic whose tenacity stands out.
His journey demonstrates an important part of the GSF philosophy: sometimes people don't know what they are capable of until someone gives them the opportunity to try.
The Board
Leadership With Purpose
GSF's Board of Directors provides governance, strategic leadership, financial oversight, and connections that help advance our mission.
Our Board brings together leaders with experience in business, nonprofit management, automotive industries, finance, workforce development, philanthropy, community development, education, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
But Board service at The Gear Shift Foundation is about more than governance. We want Board members who believe in opening doors.
Our Board members help create relationships with employers, dealerships, automotive companies, foundations, corporations, educational institutions, donors, and community partners who can provide opportunities for BMW Born participants.
Interested in Board Service?
GSF is continuing to build a dynamic Board of Directors. We welcome conversations with leaders who bring expertise, resources, relationships, and—most importantly—a commitment to helping people discover and achieve their potential.