My Summer Internship at Canvas: Creating the Future of Drywall Construction Innovations
By: Jeremiah Munn, Innovative Ecosystem Research Intern
Jeremiah’s Education and Background
My name is Jeremiah Munn, and I am a senior at the University of Utah, studying Entrepreneurship and Architecture. This summer, I had the privilege of interning at Canvas, a construction robotics startup addressing the skilled labor shortage by equipping interior contractors with advanced heavy machinery, AI, and automation.
Discovering Canvas Through Ivory Innovations
Canvas, a top 10 finalist for the Ivory Prize for Housing Affordability this year, caught my attention with its forward-thinking vision. Interning with Ivory Innovations at the time, I was particularly drawn to the opportunity to work closely with Kevin, the CEO, whose leadership and startup acumen were highly recommended by my peers.
Building A Relationship with Canvas
The application process included three rounds of interviews with Kevin and a take-home assignment where I pitched one of my startup ideas to the team. This task was designed to demonstrate my understanding of value creation and ultimately previewed the kind of work I would engage in throughout the internship.
Internship Opportunity at Canvas
Understanding Value of Robotics in Construction
During my time at Canvas, I focused on calculating value propositions, conducting investor research, and supporting pipeline flow. I helped calculate customer savings from Canvas’s drywall robot, which taught me just how complex value propositions can be.
The Opportunity to Learn from Innovative Thinking Leaders
The mentorship I received was a highlight of my internship, especially from Kevin, who provided insightful guidance on strategic thinking. He emphasized the importance of understanding customer pain points and strategically addressing them—a crucial methodology for operating a startup.
I also valued my interactions with Alan, the VP of Finance, who walked me through the company’s financial model, offering a front-row seat to review and ask questions about the financial workings of a startup. These experiences equipped me with the knowledge and confidence to tackle challenges when I start my own company.
Appreciation for Knowledge Gained at Ivory Innovations and Canvas
As I prepare to jump into my final year at the University of Utah, I’m confident that the skills and experiences I gained at Canvas will be instrumental in my professional journey. I’m grateful for the supportive team, the invaluable mentorship, and the support from Ivory Innovations that made this internship possible.