About Us

Mark Strauss – Set apart by extraordinary creativity, Mr. Strauss holds a degree in chemistry from Yale University and has extensive experience in marketing, e-commerce and analytics. Mr. Strauss is an accomplished leader able to navigate the most complex projects forward, quickly, without fail and with distinction.

Steven Bofill – Steve Bofill was an aerospace engineer at Sikorksy & a composite & propulsion Design Engineer for various defense companies.  Prior to that Steve was the co-founder of Vengolabs, a successful mini compact vending machine company located in NY. Vengolabs was on shark tank and has raised 7 million to date. Vengo has over 1300 machines across the US generating vending and media revenue.
Skills: 3D modeling, Aerospace background, Concept to prototype to production, cost savings, sales. Tech Operations, Engineering, Manufacturing & Supplier MGMT.

Konrad was the Executive Vice President of Global Operations for Aequs Aerospace and President of Aequs France. His operational responsibilities included Production, Engineering, Quality and Procurement, and he championed all business process excellence initiatives.

Harsha recently graduated from UConn with a dual degree in Physics Engineering and Computer Science and minor in Philosophy. She has experience conducting research at leading institutions such as NASA and WIPAC and enjoys the fields of robotics and aerodynamics. Naturally curious and observant, Harsha seeks solutions for problems which aid the progress of human kind.

Ely is a 3rd year student in the UConn Engineering Physics program. Ely has extensive experience in small aircraft design, operation, and mission planning. He has worked in multiple manufacturing research and development departments as the head author of his published research. Ely is previously certified to perform high-risk operations to maintain critical public infrastructure.

Tasbita is a third year chemical engineering student at University of Connecticut. She is a member of the UConn Engineering Without Borders, UConn Society of Women Engineers, and American Institute of Chemical Engineers.

Mr. Shackleton is an accomplished explorer, speaker, entrepreneur, and investment manager with years of international trading experience. Outside of business and adventure, Mr Shackleton is very active in philanthropy working to elevate the voices of underrepresented minorities of science through the Shackleton Research Trust.

TIP Executive Director – With oversight of venture development activities for UConn startups and the Technology Incubation Program (TIP), Mostafa supports the launch and growth of UConn companies. He also works closely with partners throughout UConn and UConn Health to support entrepreneurship and innovation programs. He also collaborates with organizations and institutions around Connecticut to support economic development efforts in the state.

Director, Technology Incubation Program (TIP), Stamford. Prior to coming to UConn she was the Head of Innovation in the US at NatWest Markets.