Bob Carlton

CO-FOUNDER

"Bob is a visionary leader who has fundamentally reshaped how our profession views the intersection of technology and mentorship. As a leading voice on the role of AI in college counseling, he provides a roadmap for how we can embrace innovation while deepening the human connection with students. For families, Bob isn't just a counselor—he is a strategic architect who challenges young people to think bigger about their potential in an ever-changing world."

A nationally recognized leader in the integration of AI within the college counseling profession, Bob Carlton brings more than 30 years of experience in higher education and student development to his work. He serves as both a "cheerleader and a challenger," a mentor who pushes young people to look past the stress of the application process to uncover their genuine interests and untapped potential.


Bob’s career has been defined by his leadership at the intersection of education and technology. For more than 20 years, he has worked with innovative educational technology companies, helping to pioneer the digital tools that have transformed how students and educators interact with academic content. This deep background in innovation provides him with an insider’s perspective on the shifting higher education landscape and what colleges value in the next generation of leaders.


In 2008, Bob joined his wife and business partner, Lisa, to grow College MatchPoint into a nationally respected firm. While the practice became a leader in supporting neurodivergent students, Bob leveraged his strategic expertise to guide students of all backgrounds toward colleges that align with their academic, social, and professional goals. His mentorship-driven approach fosters a sense of ownership in students, encouraging the self-advocacy and strategic thinking necessary to thrive long after they reach campus. gives him an insider’s perspective on the shifting landscape of higher education  In 2024, Bob and Lisa sold College MatchPoint to Guidewell Education, where Bob continues to share his expertise in a leadership role.