Our Team

With a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Minor in Finance from Penn State’s Smeal College of Business, Lars blends analytical rigor with an unrelenting drive to pioneer new frontiers. His past experience in equity research and financial data analytics taught him how real-time data can transform entire industries, further applying those insights to cannabis. Together with his dedicated team, Trak+™ will soon debut as Canova’s first product, promising a groundbreaking way to quantify cannabis consumption and offer unprecedented control. Driven by the company’s core values of transparency, social impact, and progress, Lars envisions Canova becoming a global catalyst for responsible, tech-driven cannabis usage. His leadership style reflects a passion for constant evolution, making Canova a beacon of possibility in a rapidly shifting landscape.

Gavin graduated in 2024 from Penn State University with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. Gavin has demonstrated a strong aptitude for design and technological innovation throughout his academic career. Through a range of specialized courses and hands-on projects, he has developed proficiency in both 2D and 3D CAD modeling, which he applied to the design and development of Canova’s first product from its inception. Currently, Gavin is starting his professional career as a Transmission Data Management Engineer at PPL Electric Utilities. His diverse experience across various engineering disciplines displays his ability to adapt swiftly, his commitment to learning, and his creative problem-solving skills. These attributes position him as a promising engineer capable of making significant contributions to any team or project he undertakes.

Anthony Oliva, a Penn State University alumnus with a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the class of 2023, has carved a niche in the finance sector with his specialized experience in capital raising and venture investments. He began his career at K Capital Partners, where he worked as an analyst focusing on deal sourcing, financial analysis, and investor relations in the sports and tech industries. His role involved securing significant capital for ventures, showcasing his prowess in financial modeling and market research. Currently, Anthony is employed at AJM Venture Group, where he continues to leverage his skills in investment analysis and strategic planning. Here, he focuses on identifying and nurturing high-potential startups and business opportunities. His work embodies a strategic approach to venture capital, emphasizing the growth of innovative technologies through well-informed investment strategies.

Frederick Sion from Queens, NY is the Chief Technology Officer of Canova. He graduated from Penn State University with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Minor in Mathematics in the Spring of 2023. Frederick currently works as a Software Development Engineer on Amazon's Cloud Authorization team, where he has been since July 2023. In addition to his full time industry experience, Frederick has had numerous other achievements throughout his college career. Some of these include placing #2 in Penn State's 2022 Nittany AI Challenge through his team SchizophrenAI, placing #1 in the Bardusch Idea Makers competition contribuiting to his team's website "WeAreHousing" and interning on Capital One's Data Engineering team. Frederick has a diverse skillset and brings professional level of quality to every product he has worked on.

Cameron graduated in 2024 from Penn State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Advertising and Public Relations. During his academic career, Cameron honed his skills in creative strategy and brand development through a combination of coursework and hands-on experience. While at Oxygen Digital Agency, he worked as a Graphic Design and Social Media Assistant, where he crafted impactful logos, advertisements, and event materials, laying the foundation for his passion for innovative marketing solutions. Cameron further expanded his expertise as a Brand Management Intern at Marriott Vacations Worldwide, where he contributed to the successful launch of the Hyatt Vacation Club during a major brand merger. Currently, Cameron serves as an Account Coordinator at Oxygen Digital Agency, managing client relationships and crafting tailored strategies that align with business objectives. Cameron’s passion for creative problem-solving, commitment to delivering client success, and drive to elevate brand narratives make him an integral part of the team, bringing fresh ideas and strategic expertise to every project.

From his hometown in Croydon, PA, Damon Wu is a innovator in electrical engineering and hardware design, steering the future of technology with a blend of technical expertise and creative ingenuity. Damon holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering with a Minor in Computer Engineering from Pennsylvania State University. With a strong foundation in embedded systems and hardware integration, Damon has honed his skills through a series of impactful roles, including as an Electrical Engineer at a Canova Solutions. There, he spearheaded the design and development of a custom ESP32-based PCB, integrating schematic design, PCB layout, firmware, and hardware testing to deliver tailored solutions. His freelance experience as an electronics technician further showcases his versatility, repairing and optimizing electronic devices for individuals and businesses alike.

Ian Tsang from Hong Kong is currently pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering at Penn State, with an expected graduation in Spring 2025. His professional experience includes roles at Disney Engineering, where he worked on embedded systems for Disneyland attractions. Ian has also contributed to The Hong Kong and China Gas Company, focusing on IoT gas technology solutions. Additionally, he has been involved with the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute focusing on cutting edge electronic technologies. Ian's experience spans practical application and research, making him adept at leading projects in electrical systems and app integration.

Akinade Peter-Koyi, a Bronx native, is set to graduate in May 2025 with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Penn State. Akinade’s research includes modeling fish school dynamics using machine learning and designing CubeSat-compatible devices for vibration measurement, showcasing his ability to merge hardware design with data-driven solutions. His professional experience includes internships at Michael Baker International, where he designed EV charger conduit pathing and lighting systems for highways, and Xerox Holdings, where his designs improved printer efficiency. Akinade’s personal projects, such as an FPGA-based Omni-Keyboard and delay-optimized adder circuits, reflect his ingenuity and technical expertise. With a strong foundation in programming, circuit design, and CAD modeling, Akinade combines creativity with precision to tackle complex challenges. He is poised to make significant contributions to advancing hardware innovation and engineering solutions.