GoTu Technology: Transforming and Solving Dental Staffing Complications

When Cary Gahm and Edward Thomas co-founded GoTu, a digital staffing platform for the dental industry, they envisioned more than just solving a staffing problem—they wanted to empower both professionals and dental offices to thrive. Today, GoTu is often described as the ‘Uber of dental staffing,’ seamlessly connecting dental professionals with practices in need of temporary or flexible staffing solutions.

From Idea to Impact: A Story of Resilience and Innovation

The journey began with a simple observation. Edward’s close friend, a dental hygienist, was frustrated by the industry’s inefficient staffing system. Professionals struggled to find additional work that fit their schedules, and dental offices constantly faced staffing shortages. “There has to be a better way,” Edward recalls her saying—a statement that planted the seed for what would become GoTu.

Edward reached out to Cary, who was running a successful digital marketing agency at the time. Initially skeptical, Cary dismissed the idea of a ‘calendar swap app’ for dental professionals. But further research revealed the scale of the problem: a $200 billion dental industry, with a 1–2% unemployment rate among professionals. As Cary puts it, ‘If we could make four workers look like five by enabling flexibility, we could build a huge business and do real good for the world.’

The solution? A platform that streamlined the staffing process. Offices could easily request help for specific roles—hygienists, assistants, front desk workers, or associate dentists—and professionals could accept shifts at rates and times that suited them. Payments flowed smoothly, and both parties rated their experiences, ensuring quality and trust.

A People-First Culture

GoTu’s culture is as innovative as its platform. Cary and Edward, who have worked together for over 20 years, attribute much of their success to their partnership and shared values. The duo embraced the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to define their vision: solving staffing shortages while allowing professionals to work where they want, when they want, and for what they want.

This people-focused mission extends to their team. With 140 employees, 90% based in their Miami headquarters, GoTu champions an in-office culture that fosters collaboration and energy. ‘You can feel the culture when you walk in,’ says Edward. From banging a gong to celebrate a sale to impromptu brainstorming sessions, the office hums with purpose and camaraderie. ‘Being in the office allows people to learn, grow, and build relationships,’ adds Cary, emphasizing the value of mentorship and collaboration.

Overcoming Challenges: Leading Through Crisis

Like all entrepreneurial ventures, GoTu faced its share of challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic brought operations to a standstill. Dental offices shut down, and professionals faced uncertainty. Yet, Cary and Edward used the downtime wisely, rebuilding their platform to address early bugs and glitches. They refused to cut corners, prioritizing safety and transparency.

“There wasn’t a guidebook for launching a platform during a pandemic,” Edward reflects. “We focused on doing the right thing, and it paid off.” Offices that worked with GoTu during the crisis remained loyal, recognizing the platform’s commitment to quality and reliability.

Vision for the Future

With nationwide availability and ambitious expansion plans, GoTu is just getting started. The platform is making waves across the West Coast, addressing staffing shortages with a solution that benefits both dental professionals and practices. “We’re only scratching the surface,” Cary notes, pointing to the untapped opportunities within the fragmented dental market.

GoTu’s success lies in its ability to balance technology and human connection. By building with both the dental offices and professionals in mind, they’ve created a solution that solves real problems while elevating the industry.

Advice for Entrepreneurs

With nationwide availability and ambitious expansion plans, GoTu is just getting started. The platform is making waves across the West Coast, addressing staffing shortages with a solution that benefits both dental professionals and practices. “We’re only scratching the surface,” Cary notes, pointing to the untapped opportunities within the fragmented dental market.

GoTu’s success lies in its ability to balance technology and human connection. By building with both the dental offices and professionals in mind, they’ve created a solution that solves real problems while elevating the industry.

Celebrating Recognition

With nationwide availability and ambitious expansion plans, GoTu is just getting started. The platform is making waves across the West Coast, addressing staffing shortages with a solution that benefits both dental professionals and practices. “We’re only scratching the surface,” Cary notes, pointing to the untapped opportunities within the fragmented dental market.

GoTu’s success lies in its ability to balance technology and human connection. By building with both the dental offices and professionals in mind, they’ve created a solution that solves real problems while elevating the industry.