👋 Hey, I’m David Stepania, and welcome to an exclusive 🔒 subscriber-only edition 🔒 of Homebase AI’s weekly newsletter. Every week, I share actionable insights, strategies, and real-world stories from founders and leaders who are transforming businesses with AI.
Join our community as we explore how to unlock AI’s untapped potential, tackle real business problems, and accelerate your company’s growth.
From Self-Taught to Future-Ready: The Lawrence Bugg Story
Rethinking Education for the AI Age
While education institutions struggle to adapt to the AI revolution, Lawrence Bugg is building the bridge to the future of work. His startup, Future State University (FSU), isn't just another edtech platform—it's reimagining how young people prepare for careers in a world where traditional credentials are losing relevance and AI is reshaping every industry.
The Self-Taught Advantage
Lawrence Bugg's journey defies conventional wisdom. Without a college degree, he built a successful career that included roles at Oracle and McKinsey—competing directly with graduates from elite universities.
His secret? "Self-taught, really reading books and networking with people and having mentors throughout my life."
This approach served him well through multiple ventures, including his role in scaling one of the first iPad-based point-of-sale systems for restaurants that was later acquired by Groupon in 2013.
But throughout his journey, a question nagged at him:
How could talented individuals without traditional credentials showcase their true capabilities to employers?
Future State University: A New Model for Career Readiness
FSU is Lawrence’s answer—a platform that merges an AI-driven career university with a 3D multiplayer game environment, redefining how skills and potential are assessed.
🔹 AI-powered career exploration based on personal traits and interests
🔹 Guidance toward high-growth careers that won’t be automated away
🔹 Learning paths focused on critical thinking, creativity, and human skills
🔹 A next-gen resume that showcases executive functions and operating skills
Unlike LinkedIn or traditional resumes, FSU’s career profile provides a deep, data-driven view of an individual’s skills, aptitudes, and potential—offering a real alternative to outdated hiring methods.
Early Traction: Bootstrapping to Success
While most edtech startups chase VC funding, Lawrence has bootstrapped FSU to profitability—a rare feat in today’s market.
✅ First client: Dev Mission (a San Francisco-based tech bootcamp)
✅ $50,000 annual contract ($20/user per month)
✅ K-12 schools lined up for future adoption.
The runway to growth looks promising as more institutions recognize the need for AI-driven, skill-based education.
