About The Cannon

OUR MISSION


The Cannon develops innovation infrastructure to create and evolve entrepreneurial communities all over the world.
Our mission is to create, grow and evolve the world’s most effective and valued entrepreneurial Community – one that provides every resource required to support individuals and corporations in innovation, creation and delivery on their entrepreneurial vision – and introducing that Community to places where entrepreneurial potential is strong but investment in that potential has not yet been prioritized.

The Cannon Community will be a global, experience-based ecosystem of aspiring entrepreneurs, start-up founders, mentors, business advisors, service providers, corporate innovators and investors of all kinds supported by the resources – workspace, entrepreneurial programming & events, business tools, enabling technology, and success support – critical to individual and collective success.

Expansion of the Cannon Community will transform entrepreneurially underserved cities and regions to be powerful drivers of new business, job creation and innovative activity that enhance the social and economic well-being of the members of those communities.

OUR MISSION


The Cannon develops innovation infrastructure to create and evolve entrepreneurial communities all over the world.

Our mission is to create, grow and evolve the world’s most effective and valued entrepreneurial Community – one that provides every resource required to support individuals and corporations in innovation, creation and delivery on their entrepreneurial vision – and introducing that Community to places where entrepreneurial potential is strong but investment in that potential has not yet been prioritized.

The Cannon Community will be a global, experience-based ecosystem of aspiring entrepreneurs, start-up founders, mentors, business advisors, service providers, corporate innovators and investors of all kinds supported by the resources – workspace, entrepreneurial programming & events, business tools, enabling technology, and success support – critical to individual and collective success.

Expansion of the Cannon Community will transform entrepreneurially underserved cities and regions to be powerful drivers of new business, job creation and innovative activity that enhance the social and economic well-being of the members of those communities.

WHAT WE BELIEVE


Entrepreneurship is fundamental to economic sustainability and growth.
Entrepreneurship extends beyond individuals looking to start a new business to innovation and expansion of existing companies – an entrepreneur can be an aspiring founder, a business owner, an innovator, or an executive in need of capital to start a new project, introduce a new product, or expand a promising line of business.
‘Founder personalities’ – namely individuals, organizations, academic institutions, venture capitalists and legislative bodies with a bent toward entrepreneurship and innovation, have come together geographically – Silicon Valley, Boston, New York, Berlin, Shanghai, etc.) to take advantage of the obvious synergies of proximity.
An untapped, mostly unexplored and growing world of existing and budding ‘founder personalities’ and evolving corporate innovators reside in cities and geographic regions that have yet to be afforded the synergy, connectivity and opportunity of true entrepreneurial community.
‘Founder and Innovator spirit’ has no demographic boundary and the pursuit of entrepreneurial dreams is an inalienable right and should be an opportunity made available to all.
Entrepreneurship can be a lonely endeavor and there are proven material benefits for entrepreneurs and innovators to have access to a community that enables interaction, interdependence and dynamic support.
Introducing entrepreneurial community that includes the individuals, resources, capital and support is the key to helping founders and innovators move from concept to successful endeavor (however that’s defined) is both key to, and subsequently a true measure of, entrepreneurial success.

WHAT WE BELIEVE


Entrepreneurship is fundamental to economic sustainability and growth.
Entrepreneurship extends beyond individuals looking to start a new business to innovation and expansion of existing companies – an entrepreneur can be an aspiring founder, a business owner, an innovator, or an executive in need of capital to start a new project, introduce a new product, or expand a promising line of business.
‘Founder personalities’ – namely individuals, organizations, academic institutions, venture capitalists and legislative bodies with a bent toward entrepreneurship and innovation, have come together geographically – Silicon Valley, Boston, New York, Berlin, Shanghai, etc.) to take advantage of the obvious synergies of proximity.
An untapped, mostly unexplored and growing world of existing and budding ‘founder personalities’ and evolving corporate innovators reside in cities and geographic regions that have yet to be afforded the synergy, connectivity and opportunity of true entrepreneurial community.
‘Founder and Innovator spirit’ has no demographic boundary and the pursuit of entrepreneurial dreams is an inalienable right and should be an opportunity made available to all.
Entrepreneurship can be a lonely endeavor and there are proven material benefits for entrepreneurs and innovators to have access to a community that enables interaction, interdependence and dynamic support.
Introducing entrepreneurial community that includes the individuals, resources, capital and support is the key to helping founders and innovators move from concept to successful endeavor (however that’s defined) is both key to, and subsequently a true measure of, entrepreneurial success.

WE'RE HIRING!


We’re always on the hunt for entrepreneurial-minded individuals that want to join our team and help impact the Houston startup and small business ecosystem, including upcoming needs in the following areas:


Community Associate


Interested in future openings? Submit your resume below!

CONTACT US

MEET THE TEAM


JON LAMBERT

CEO

Jon Lambert joined The Cannon as Chief Executive Officer on November 1, 2019. Jon brings over 30 years of professional experience and organizational and operational leadership across the public and private sector. Prior to joining The Cannon, he served in a number of leadership roles with KPMG including four years as Executive Director of Investment Operations for KPMG Capital providing oversight to a diverse portfolio of global investment companies. Jon played key roles in the formation and growth of a number of start-up entities and M&A driven rapid growth companies including Houston based Equaterra, SourceNet Solutions, Superstand Entertainment Co. and Universal Computer Systems. Mr. Lambert holds a BS in Mathematics from Palm Beach Atlantic University.

JON LAMBERT
CEO

Jon Lambert joined The Cannon as Chief Executive Officer on November 1, 2019. Jon brings over 30 years of professional experience and organizational and operational leadership across the public and private sector. Prior to joining The Cannon, he served in a number of leadership roles with KPMG including four years as Executive Director of Investment Operations for KPMG Capital providing oversight to a diverse portfolio of global investment companies. 

Jon played key roles in the formation and growth of a number of start-up entities and M&A driven rapid growth companies including Houston based Equaterra, SourceNet Solutions, Superstand Entertainment Co. and Universal Computer Systems and holds a BS in Mathematics from Palm Beach Atlantic University.

BRAD TRUE

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Following a winding career in the sports world that featured stops at the University of Oklahoma, Houston Texans, University of Louisville, 2016 Final Four and Professional Sports Partners, Brad joined The Cannon in December of 2017 and now oversees all overall day to day operations of The Cannon and its growing community, including all current and future Cannon locations and Cannon Connect, The Cannon's new online platform. Holding an undergraduate degree in marketing from Texas A&M and a graduate degree from the University of Oklahoma, Brad enjoys pretty much anything outside, including trying to visit every major National Park in the US, occasionally attempting to surf, and also aims to go on (and win) Survivor one day.

HILARY AGHO

CHIEF EXPERIENCE OFFICER

Hilary graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a Master’s Degree in Public Policy in 2015, and from the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay with three Bachelor’s Degrees with summa cum laude honors. She has always had a passion for local and sustainable economic development and is committed to working with local government, community and private sector leaders to foster and maintain economically sustainable communities for businesses and people. Hilary moved to Houston from Chicago after grad school and pursued work within a startup as well as a marketing and advertising agency in the past 4 years. Outside of work, Hilary enjoys spending time with her family, painting, gardening, and participating in competitive runs.

CLEMMIE MARTIN

CHIEF OF STAFF

Clemmie took on the role of Chief of Staff at The Cannon in January 2024, leveraging a background in leading high-growth early-stage start-ups and bringing an excitement for strategic planning and business optimization to the team. Clemmie is dedicated to shaping and executing the company's strategic vision as it embraces new growth, and optimizing operational and team efficiency. She works closely with the CEO to foster effective leadership and a thriving work environment at The Cannon, with a distinct emphasis on achieving strategic objectives. Clemmie's favorite moments outside of the office are the little moments with her son and daughter, husband and labrador retriever (George!), with a particular passion for baking with (and for) them. 

BRANDY GUIDRY

PEARLAND NAVIGATOR

Brandy Guidry is the Pearland Navigator for the Pearland Innovation Hub. She leads the efforts in promoting the Hub throughout the Pearland community and ensures all partnerships, sponsorships and programming align with the Pearland EDC’s strategic plan. Her role includes creating and implementing events in support of aspiring and existing business owners, and the development of a Pro-Active Coaching Program. Ms. Guidry is a dedicated and experienced professional with over 18 combined years of experience in Product Management, Engineering, R&D, Technical Marketing, Strategic and Disruptive Innovation, Strategic Planning and Project Management. Prior to joining The Cannon as the Pearland Navigator, Brandy spent her career as an entrepreneur, consultant for investors and business owners, and employee of the Department of Defense (DoD) and GE, supporting multiple industries. 

BRAD TRUE

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER


Following a winding career in the sports world that featured stops at the University of Oklahoma, Houston Texans, University of Louisville, 2016 Final Four and Professional Sports Partners, Brad joined The Cannon in December 2017 and now oversees all overall day to day operations of The Cannon and its growing community, including all current and future Cannon locations. Holding an undergraduate degree in marketing from Texas A&M and a graduate degree from the University of Oklahoma, Brad enjoys pretty much anything outside, including trying to visit every major National Park in the US, occasionally attempting to surf, and also aims to go on (and win) Survivor one day.

HILARY AGHO

CHIEF EXPERIENCE OFFICER


Hilary graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a Master’s Degree in Public Policy in 2015, and from the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay with three Bachelor’s Degrees with summa cum laude honors. She has always had a passion for local and sustainable economic development and is committed to working with local government, community and private sector leaders to foster and maintain economically sustainable communities for businesses and people. Hilary moved to Houston from Chicago after grad school and pursued work within a startup as well as a marketing and advertising agency in the past 4 years. Outside of work, Hilary enjoys spending time with her family, painting, gardening, and participating in competitive runs.

CLEMMIE MARTIN

CHIEF OF STAFF


Clemmie took on the role of Chief of Staff at The Cannon in January 2024, leveraging a background in leading high-growth early-stage start-ups and bringing an excitement for strategic planning and business optimization to the team. Clemmie is dedicated to shaping and executing the company's strategic vision as it embraces new growth, and optimizing operational and team efficiency. She works closely with the CEO to foster effective leadership and a thriving work environment at The Cannon, with a distinct emphasis on achieving strategic objectives. Clemmie's favorite moments outside of the office are the little moments with her son and daughter, husband and labrador retriever (George!), with a particular passion for baking with (and for) them. 

BRANDY GUIDRY

PEARLAND NAVIGATOR


Brandy Guidry is the Pearland Navigator for the Pearland Innovation Hub. She leads the efforts in promoting the Hub throughout the Pearland community and ensures all partnerships, sponsorships and programming align with the Pearland EDC’s strategic plan. Her role includes creating and implementing events in support of aspiring and existing business owners, and the development of a Pro-Active Coaching Program. Ms. Guidry is a dedicated and experienced professional with over 18 combined years of experience in Product Management, Engineering, R&D, Technical Marketing, Strategic and Disruptive Innovation, Strategic Planning and Project Management. Prior to joining The Cannon as the Pearland Navigator, Brandy spent her career as an entrepreneur, consultant for investors and business owners, and employee of the Department of Defense (DoD) and GE, supporting multiple industries. 

REMINGTON TONAR
SENIOR ADVISOR

Prior to joining The Cannon, Remington worked in strategy and innovation consulting in New York City, where he helped global organizations set strategic growth priorities and exploit market opportunities. He previously co-founded a micro-VC fund focused on food and beverage startups and continues to advise startups across industries. He is a Forbes.com Contributor covering urban and infrastructure innovation, and holds graduate degrees from New York University and Loyola University Chicago. Remington is known for his affinity for Michelin-starred restaurants and fast food, but nothing in between. After serving as The Cannon's Chief Revenue Officer, Remington is now the CCO of Cart.com and assists The Cannon on a number of strategic innovation projects.

THEO DIMARHOS

DIRECTOR OF MEMBER ENGAGEMENT


After graduating Rutgers University with a degree in Economics and Political Science, Theo joined Angelou Economics to lead the firm’s business development efforts. At AE, he worked on economic development and strategic plans for towns and cities around the U.S. and abroad. At The Cannon, Theo started out managing the new Cannon Uptown Sports & Entertainment, and Cannon Post Oak locations, as well as initiatives across The Cannon's digital community and now oversees member relations across our entire membership base. Outside of work, Theo works on his startup, Ellis, that helps immigrant families stay in touch with their roots.

REMINGTON TONAR

SENIOR ADVISOR

Prior to joining The Cannon, Remington worked in strategy and innovation consulting in New York City, where he helped global organizations set strategic growth priorities and exploit market opportunities. He previously co-founded a micro-VC fund focused on food and beverage startups and continues to advise startups across industries. He is a Forbes.com Contributor covering urban and infrastructure innovation, and holds graduate degrees from New York University and Loyola University Chicago. Remington is known for his affinity for Michelin-starred restaurants and fast food, but nothing in between. After serving as The Cannon's Chief Revenue Officer, Remington is now the CCO of Cart.com and assists The Cannon on a number of strategic innovation projects.

THEO DIMARHOS

DIRECTOR OF MEMBER ENGAGEMENT

After graduating Rutgers University with a degree in Economics and Political Science, Theo joined Angelou Economics to lead the firm’s business development efforts. At AE, he worked on economic development and strategic plans for towns and cities around the U.S. and abroad. At The Cannon, Theo oversees member relations and engagement across our entire membership base and is a key driver in helping our community grow their businesses. Outside of work, Theo works on his startup, Ellis, that helps immigrant families stay in touch with their roots.

MADDIE TAYLOR

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

After graduating from the University of Denver in 2017, Maddie developed a diverse range of perspectives working first at a luxury travel agency in Manhattan and later at a local non-profit in her hometown of Houston. She joined The Cannon in summer of 2021 as the Member Engagement Manager for our two downtown locations and now oversees the back end operations for all of The Cannon's growing number of workspaces. Her favorite activities include hiking and camping (when it's not miserably hot and humid) and binging the latest HBO series while cooking up a fresh bowl of spaghetti marinara. 

KAROLINE HAKES

MEMBER EXPERIENCE MANAGER

The Cannon - The Woodlands

Karoline earned her Bachelor of Arts in Journalism degree from the University of Mississippi. She has experience working in marketing and administrative careers within the medical field. Previously, she was managing and overseeing daily operations of an applied behavior analysis clinic. Karoline is excited about supporting members throughout the enrollment process and joining the entrepreneurial community. In her free time, Karoline enjoys spending time with her family, watching anything scary and eating sushi. 

ALDO ORTIZ

OPERATIONS AND MARKETING MANAGER

The Cannon West Houston

Aldo is no stranger to the startup world. He worked as an operations manager for a sports media company called Gameday Films. Although his title was Operations Manager he wore a lot of different hats during his time there. And now he is bringing all of the skills he learned and developed to The Cannon Team. In his free time you can catch Aldo driving around Houston, taking pictures, building things for his home, and brainstorming new startup ideas with his older brother.

AUBRIE SMITH

MEMBER EXPERIENCE MANAGER

Aubrie Smith graduated with a B.B.A in Entrepreneurship from Stephen F. Austin State University in December 2022. During her time there she was the President of the Society for Entrepreneurial Advancement on campus and was a primary developer of SFA’s inaugural Lumberjack Entrepreneurship Competition and Pop-Up Pitches. Aubrie is passionate about innovation and enjoys incorporating education with entrepreneurship. In her free time, you can find Aubrie attending a show at The Alley Theatre, watching stand-up comedy, or enjoying a variety of outdoor activities.

KATE TORTORELLA

MEMBER EXPERIENCE MANAGER

The Cannon – West Houston

Shortly after graduating from Texas Christian University in 2021 with a degree in Communication and English, Kate joined The Cannon team as a community associate. With her super out-going personality, Kate is excited to help foster and maintain a great work environment for the members at The Cannon. Outside of work you can find her either reading by a pool, playing with all sorts of dogs, or cheering on the Green Bay Packers (second biggest fan to Aldo Ortiz and Aldo Ortiz only).

SAMMY JO WHITTON

MEMBER ENGAGEMENT MANAGER

Sammy Jo was a student at University of Houston's Wolff Center for Entrepreneurship and graduated in December 2021 with a double major in Entrepreneurship and Supply Chain Management with a certificate in Strategic Sourcing. While pursuing her degree, she and her fiancé started a sailing charter business in Galveston that provides a great experience for small groups. She enjoys putting to use her entrepreneurial knowledge and abundant customer service experience as The Cannon's Member & Advisor Engagement Manager. In her spare time she enjoys traveling, trying new foods, exploring local gems and spending time with her growing family.

CONNOR POGUE

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS INNOVATION LEAD

Connor Pogue graduated with an MS in Business from Texas A&M University in 2018, while he also became a startup founder as a college student. Since then, he has been involved in multiple organizations and often loves taking on the role as being a catalyst for change. Connor enjoys working with driven individuals who are passionate about ideas, work, and life. In his free time, Connor loves fishing, scuba diving, and all things outdoors. 

MIRIAM MOGUS

MEMBER EXPERIENCE COORDINATOR

The Cannon Tower - Downtown Houston

Shortly after graduating from The University of Houston in 2020 with a degree in Marketing and Management, Miriam joined The Cannon team as a community associate in fall of 2021. With her experience as a director for her women focused Bauer organization, Miriam is excited to create a cohesive community and work environment. She is passionate about coordinating events for members as well as ensuring day to day office tasks run smoothly. Outside of work you can find her discovering new restaurants, traveling, or cooking up a new recipe while listening to soul music. 

A'SHIA ROSE

MEMBER EXPERIENCE COORDINATOR

The Cannon Post Oak

Prior to joining The Cannon, A’shia worked extensively in hospitality and event coordination. A’shia joined The Cannon team as a Community Associate in February 2022 and has enjoyed making connections and building relationships with the various members and companies in our community. She is passionate about maintaining and promoting a happy work environment for all of our Cannon members. In her spare time, you can find her spending time with friends and family, attending local concerts, reading up on psychology, and trying her hand at a variety of creative activities.

MADDIE TAYLOR

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS


After graduating from the University of Denver in 2017, Maddie developed a diverse range of perspectives working first at a luxury travel agency in Manhattan and later at a local non-profit in her hometown of Houston. She joined The Cannon in summer of 2021 as the Member Engagement Manager for our two downtown locations and now oversees the operations for all of our growing number of workspaces. Her favorite activities include hiking and camping (when it's not miserably hot and humid) and binging the latest HBO series while cooking up a fresh bowl of spaghetti marinara. 

SAMMY JO WHITTON

MEMBER ENGAGEMENT MANAGER


Sammy Jo was a student at University of Houston's Wolff Center for Entrepreneurship and graduated in December 2021 with a double major in Entrepreneurship and Supply Chain Management with a certificate in Strategic Sourcing. While pursuing her degree, she and her fiancé started a sailing charter business in Galveston that provides a great experience for small groups. She enjoys putting to use her entrepreneurial knowledge and abundant customer service experience as The Cannon's Member & Advisor Engagement Manager. In her spare time she enjoys traveling, trying new foods, exploring local gems and spending time with her growing family.

ALDO ORTIZ

OPERATIONS AND MARKETING MANAGER

The Cannon – West Houston


Aldo is no stranger to the startup world. He worked as an operations manager for a sports media company called Gameday Films. Although his title was Operations Manager he wore a lot of different hats during his time there. And now he is bringing all of the skills he learned and developed to The Cannon Team. In his free time you can catch Aldo driving around Houston, taking pictures, building things for his home, and brainstorming new startup ideas with his older brother.

CONNOR POGUE

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS INNOVATION LEAD


Connor Pogue graduated with an MS in Business from Texas A&M University in 2018, while he also became a startup founder as a college student. Since then, he has been involved in multiple organizations and often loves taking on the role as being a catalyst for change. Connor enjoys working with driven individuals who are passionate about ideas, work, and life. In his free time, Connor loves fishing, scuba diving, and all things outdoors.

KATE TORTORELLA

MEMBER EXPERIENCE MANAGER

The Cannon – West Houston


Shortly after graduating from Texas Christian University in 2021 with a degree in Communication and English, Kate joined The Cannon team as a community associate. With her super out-going personality, Kate is excited to help foster and maintain a great work environment for the members at The Cannon. Outside of work you can find her either reading by a pool, playing with all sorts of dogs, or cheering on the Green Bay Packers (second biggest fan to Aldo Ortiz and Aldo Ortiz only).

AUBRIE SMITH

MEMBER EXPERIENCE MANAGER

The Cannon – Fish Creek


Aubrie Smith graduated with a B.B.A in Entrepreneurship from Stephen F. Austin State University in December 2022. During her time there she was the President of the Society for Entrepreneurial Advancement on campus and was a primary developer of SFA’s inaugural Lumberjack Entrepreneurship Competition and Pop-Up Pitches. Aubrie is passionate about innovation and enjoys incorporating education with entrepreneurship. In her free time, you can find Aubrie attending a show at The Alley Theatre, watching stand-up comedy, or enjoying a variety of outdoor activities.

KAROLINE HAKES

MEMBER EXPERIENCE MANAGER

The Cannon - The Woodlands


Karoline earned her Bachelor of Arts in Journalism degree from the University of Mississippi. She has experience working in marketing and administrative careers within the medical field. Previously, she was managing and overseeing daily operations of an applied behavior analysis clinic. Karoline is excited about supporting members throughout the enrollment process and joining the entrepreneurial community. In her free time, Karoline enjoys spending time with her family, watching anything scary and eating sushi. 

A'SHIA ROSE

MEMBER EXPERIENCE COORDINATOR

The Cannon Post Oak


Prior to joining The Cannon, A’shia worked extensively in hospitality and event coordination. A’shia joined The Cannon team as a Community Associate in February 2022 and has enjoyed making connections and building relationships with the various members and companies in our community. She is passionate about maintaining and promoting a happy work environment for all of our Cannon members. In her spare time, you can find her spending time with friends and family, attending local concerts, reading up on psychology, and trying her hand at a variety of creative activities.

MIRIAM MOGUS

MEMBER EXPERIENCE COORDINATOR

The Cannon Tower - Downtown Houston


Shortly after graduating from The University of Houston in 2020 with a degree in Marketing and Management, Miriam joined The Cannon team as a Community Associate in fall of 2021. With her experience as a director for her women focused Bauer organization, Miriam is excited to create a cohesive community and work environment. She is passionate about coordinating events for members as well as ensuring day to day office tasks run smoothly. Outside of work you can find her discovering new restaurants, traveling, or cooking up a new recipe while listening to soul music. 

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