About
Aim Forward is a specialized consulting practice that transforms data into action for mission-driven organizations. We offer program evaluation, applied research, strategic planning, and AI training focusing on clarity and practical results. Our distinctive approach makes complex concepts approachable and actionable, helping organizations plan effectively, measure outcomes, and make evidence-informed decisions that drive real impact.
Our Services
Program Evaluation
Aim Forward takes a context-driven approach to evaluation and research, helping your organization understand what works. We offer comprehensive services that produce actionable insights, from research design to advanced analysis.
Logic Models│Research Design & Methodology│Data Collection & Analysis│Survey & Focus Groups | Quantitative Analysis | Qualitative Analysis
Strategic Planning
Our strategic planning services provide the insights, tools, and frameworks you need to identify opportunities, overcome challenges, and thrive in the future.
Environmental Scans │SWOT Analysis
Plan Development │KPIs & OKRs Implementation Support | Capacity Building | Accreditation Consulting
AI Training & Integration
Aim Forward enables organizations to leverage AI mindfully for efficiency and productivity gains.
One-on-One Training | Customized Workshops | Webinars (Live & Recorded) AI Readiness Assessments | Ethical Implementation Guidance
OUR CLIENTS
TESTIMONIALS
Bob – Peer Collaborative Evaluation
"I learned a great deal and found it very empowering. I am a person who wants to learn about innovations before using them and this really helped put me on the right path. Thank you!!!!"
Kelli – Center for Applied Research in Education, USC
"I cannot remember attending a webinar where I was so eager to start using my new knowledge immediately."
L. Dhillon - Jodevi Consulting
"The webinar was very informative, providing a detailed overview of tools, methods, and benefits throughout. The interactive element was beneficial, accommodating various levels of familiarity with the topic. I have already applied some of these insights to further depth in a project."
Tom Hughes, Ph. D.
Tom is the Co-Founder and President of Aim Forward Consulting. With over 30 years of professional experience across multiple sectors, Tom brings expertise in research methodology, data analysis, and organizational development.
His career spans leadership roles in higher education administration, healthcare analytics, and independent consulting, where he has consistently helped organizations transform data into strategic action. Tom's background includes specialized work as a statistician, human capital analyst, and epidemiologist for private and public organizations.
Tom holds a Ph.D. in Higher Education and Community College Leadership from Old Dominion University and an M.A. and B.S. in Sociology from Arizona State University.
When not helping organizations improve and thrive, Tom enjoys traveling with his family, camping, running, and mountain biking.
Robert Finnegan
Robert brings over 25 years of leadership experience across both for-profit and non-profit sectors, with expertise spanning technology, operations, and analytics.
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Throughout his career, he has excelled at transforming raw data into meaningful insights and turning those insights into strategic action. His innovative approach has led to the development of performance metrics that have driven revenue growth, as well as algorithms designed to minimize risk and reduce losses.
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A lifelong learner, Robert holds degrees from Arizona State University and Keller Graduate School of Management. He thrives in dynamic environments, leveraging data-driven strategies to enhance efficiency, improve decision-making, and create lasting impact.
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Beyond work, Robert is an avid runner who enjoys early morning runs. He also finds joy in gardening—despite being more "kiss of death" than "green thumb." A passionate traveler, he loves venturing to less-traveled destinations, seeking out undiscovered places, and broadening his perspective one journey at a time.