About Us
The motivation behind founding Next Level Education was clear: to help industry experts Advance Home Ownership across the country. J.R. and Debbie saw an opportunity to expand their vision. With hundreds of thousands of loan officers in the U.S., they realized by motivating new professionals to enter the industry and elevating seasoned veterans, they could exponentially grow the number of families achieving homeownership.
Next Level Education was born from this vision—to inspire and equip loan officers with the tools and knowledge to make a lasting difference. As an NMLS-approved provider, we are dedicated to redefining the approach to professional development in the mortgage industry, delivering impactful training experiences through modern tools like Adobe Learning Manager, and providing industry news and updates.
J.R. Huber
CEO & PRESIDENT
J.R. Huber is a 30-year veteran of the mortgage industry who has seen it all—from working with a Community Bank and a mid-sized IMB to navigating the scale of 2 of the largest lenders in the country. His career journey, which started as a Loan Officer ranking in the top 3%, nationally, has included roles as a branch manager, regional manager, Executive Vice President, and President. Along the way, J.R. has built high-performing teams, led through historic market cycles, and gained a deep, fluent understanding of the industry (along with a few gray hairs to prove it).
J.R. has also given back through leadership roles with Mortgage Bankers Associations, the Salvation Army, Young Professionals, the Knoxville Business Association, and other trade organizations. He remarried in 2025 to someone who shares his 30-year tenure in the mortgage industry, gaining two more daughters in the process to go along with his twin daughters that are currently in college. His growing family reminds him that teamwork and patience,—whether in life, sports, or business—are keys to success.
Passionate about identifying and cultivating talent, J.R. co-founded Next Level Education with a vision to make learning enjoyable and engaging. By leveraging his three decades of experience, he’s committed to helping both new and seasoned loan officers grow professionally. The goal? Elevate the expertise of mortgage professionals while having a little fun along the way…
Debbie Gadberry, CMB
COO & SENIOR VP
Debbie Gadberry has over four decades of experience in the Mortgage Banking Industry, specializing in sales, operations and service within the Retail, Wholesale and Correspondent Channels. Throughout her career, she has remained deeply passionate about the mortgage industry and the profound impact it has on individuals and communities. She is dedicated to fostering a culture of mentorship, training, and education for new professionals entering this field.
Over the years Debbie has prioritized building strong client relationships, increased revenue growth, and ensuring customer satisfaction. With a proven track record in sales leadership, strategic planning, and account management, she has successfully led teams, expanded market share, and negotiated key partnerships. Equally important to Debbie is to create an environment where others can grow and thrive in their careers. Through her work, both with clients and within the mortgage industry community, she is committed to building relationships, driving success, and sharing her experiences to mentor and inspire those around her.
Debbie earned her Certified Mortgage Banker (CMB) designation in 2008 and has served as the Past President of the Nashville Mortgage Bankers Association, as well as the President of the Tennessee Mortgage Bankers Association for 2022-2023.
Beyond her professional life, she maintains balance and energy through boating in her 1959 Wooden Speed Liner, snow skiing, exercise and reading, activities that help her stay focused on both personal and professional growth.
Team Excellence
At Next Level Education, we are proud to have assembled a team of dedicated professionals with extensive experience in mortgage education and certification. Our team includes seasoned mortgage loan officers, industry experts, and educational specialists, all working together to provide you with the best learning experience possible.
