To the Philly Tech Community,
For over 17 years, I've worked at the crossroads of code, system design, and automation. I've watched technologies come and go—some flash-in-the-pan, others genuinely transformative. Generative AI is different. It's not just another tool for engineers to tinker with; it's a fundamental shift in how we work, think, and communicate.
But here's the problem nobody talks about:
Right now, AI knowledge is being gatekept. It's either locked behind expensive corporate certifications or buried in technical jargon that makes everyday learners feel like they've already missed the boat.
I've seen this gap firsthand—from the boardrooms of Fortune 500 companies to the classrooms of our community colleges. The folks who could benefit most from these tools are often the last to get access to quality training.
That's why I'm launching this project.
What We're Building
I'm creating a "Digital Campus" powered by Rocket.Chat and Notion, paired with monthly in-person labs at our local libraries and universities. This isn't just another online course you'll forget about in a week—it's a neighborhood resource. A community hub. A place where you can show up, ask questions, and actually learn.
Why Crowdfunded?
I'm going with a "Pay What It's Worth" model for one simple reason: your bank account shouldn't determine your ability to learn.
Whether you can contribute $5 or $500, you get the same seat at the table. Your support doesn't just pay for a login—it funds the infrastructure. The servers. The venue space. The scholarships that keep this resource free for those who need it most.
The Bottom Line
AI isn't going anywhere. It's already changing how we write emails, run meetings, organize our work, and plan our days. You don't need to become a programmer to use these tools—but you do need someone to show you the ropes in plain English.
That's what we're here for.
Let's build this together.
Rob R. Thomas
Founder, AI Basics Community