// about here forward

We build AI around the work you already do.

Here Forward is run by Tom and Lu, two educators and builders. We build useful AI systems and digital products, support people and teams as the work changes, and teach them how to own and continue what we create together.

Based in Durango, Colorado. Working with individuals and organizations here and beyond.

// where we come from

Both of us are educators. Both of us grew up around small business.

That background shapes the questions we ask about cost, time, ownership, and what a team can realistically maintain. Here Forward grew from teaching AI and building with it alongside people doing real work.

Tom, co-founder of Here Forward

Education & Growth

Tom

  • 20+ years across technology, UX, and higher education
  • Led a college AI institute
  • Teaches AI in rural communities

Tom has spent 20+ years in technology development, UX design, and higher education. He came up in startups and small businesses, earned a computer science degree and a PhD in business along the way, and is now an endowed professor, with a recent turn leading his college's AI institute.

Lately his favorite work is running AI workshops in rural communities for rooms full of small business owners, nonprofit folks, and local leaders trying to figure it out. The rooms stay full because he makes AI accessible and practical, and keeps the conversation down to earth. Someone always catches him on the way out with one of two asks: “Can you teach this to my team?” or “Can you build this for us?” Here Forward is how he finally gets to say yes.

Tom on LinkedIn
Lu, co-founder of Here Forward

Systems & Context Dev

Lu

  • Small business and community development
  • Local government and grassroots advocacy
  • Master's in political science and public policy

Lu's background runs through small business development, local government, community development, and grassroots advocacy.

Everywhere she worked, the job stayed the same. She stood with small businesses and community groups, made complex systems make sense, and pushed for a fair shot when the rules were written for someone bigger. She's always had more ideas than hours. AI closed that gap, and that's the whole reason Here Forward exists. She holds a master's in political science and public policy, and a soft spot for the people who keep small towns running.

Lu on LinkedIn