Connectionova Labs Logo
Connectionova Labs

Meet the Minds Behind Innovation

Our team brings together diverse backgrounds in technology, education, and research. We're not just building tools – we're crafting experiences that make complex concepts accessible to everyone.

Zephyr Blackwood, CTO and Founder of Connectionova Labs
Founder & CTO

Zephyr Blackwood

Chief Technology Officer & Founder

Zephyr started his journey in basement servers at age fourteen, building networks for local businesses in rural Pennsylvania. After spending eight years at Microsoft working on cloud infrastructure, he realized something was missing in how we teach technology concepts.

"Most learning platforms treat students like they're all the same person," Zephyr explains. "But I've seen brilliant minds struggle with traditional approaches, then flourish when they find their own path." His background in cognitive science research at Carnegie Mellon shaped his conviction that adaptive learning isn't just better – it's essential.

When he's not refining algorithms, you'll find Zephyr restoring vintage electronics or teaching weekend coding workshops at the local library. He believes the best technology feels invisible, working quietly to amplify human potential.

Cloud Architecture Machine Learning Cognitive Science Adaptive Systems Educational Technology

What Drives Us Forward

C

Curiosity

We question everything, especially our own assumptions about how learning works.

E

Empathy

Every frustrating moment in education represents a person who deserves better support.

P

Persistence

Complex problems require patient iteration and willingness to start over when needed.

Team collaboration workspace at Connectionova Labs

How We Work Together

Our office operates on what we call "focused flexibility." Deep work happens in morning quiet hours, while afternoons buzz with collaboration and problem-solving sessions. We've learned that breakthrough moments often come from unexpected conversations between different disciplines.

The best ideas emerge when a data scientist, an educator, and a designer all look at the same problem from their unique angles.

We believe in building something meaningful rather than just moving fast. Our quarterly "Learning Lab" sessions bring in educators, students, and industry professionals to test our assumptions and share honest feedback. These conversations consistently reshape our priorities and approach.

Remote collaboration feels natural here because we've invested in systems that support both synchronous brainstorming and asynchronous deep thinking. Geography doesn't limit great minds from contributing to educational innovation.