Stephen Forte

Stephen Forte has over 20 years of experience in the technology industry. Stephen is currently the Founder & CEO of The BuildClub, a digital marketplace for building materials with same day delivery. In 2019, they also became a Member of the Chief Executives Organization. From 2016-2019, they were the CEO and Chief Scientist of AI Motion, Inc., a software company focused on eCommerce, AI, computer vision, advanced audio and blockchain for both Android and iOS. Stephen also served as the Chairman of the Stephen & Camilla Forte Foundation from 2016-2019, which supports the transition of special warfare service members to the private sector and local law enforcement officers and their families. From 2014-2016, Forte was an Operating Partner at Meridian Capital, and from 2010-2016, they were the Managing Director of Coats, the world's largest manufacturer of industrial sewing thread. From 2008-2010, they were the Chief Executive Officer of YCC Group, and from 2005-2008, they were the Chief Executive Officer & CTO of Talon International, Inc. From 1998-2005, they were the Chief Executive Officer, Founder & Chief Scientist of Ascendent Systems, Inc. Stephen has also been a Member of YPO since 2004, serving various roles such as Chairman of the Technology Network, Chapter Chairman of the YPO Bay Area Gold, Regional Chairman of the YPO Personal Investing Network, Speaker, Chapter Learning Officer, and Chapter Chairman of the YPO Santa Monica Bay Chapter.

Stephen Forte has an extensive educational background. In 2014, they completed a Certificate of Completion from Harvard Business School in Business Administration and Management, General. Stephen is currently studying Computer Software Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Stephen has also attended the Naval Science Institute for USMC Officer Training, obtained an MBA in International Finance from The George Washington University, completed USMC Officer Training at USMC OCS, and obtained a BA in International Relations, Russian from the University of Southern California. Additionally, in 2013, they obtained The Complete Skilled Negotiator certification from The Gap Partnership.