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Quan Gan
Father, Husband, Tech Entrepreneur, Engineer, Futurist, Robot Wrangler, FPV Drone Pilot, Non-Profit Board Member, Enlightenment Seeker, EO Board Member
Professional Background
Quan Gan is a visionary entrepreneur deeply committed to creating a more connected and interactive world for children in today's digital-centric society. As a dedicated father of two, Quan understands firsthand the challenges that modern parents face in cultivating face-to-face interactions and genuine social connections among their children. This commitment drives his ambitious project, ZTAG, which is a revolutionary game designed to promote physical activity, social interaction, and mental well-being among kids. By transitioning the essence of video gaming into real-world settings, ZTAG encourages children to engage in outdoor play and foster lasting social ties.
Prior to venturing into the realm of child-focused games, Quan founded Gantom Lighting & Controls—a specialty illumination company noted for crafting the world's smallest DMX lighting fixtures that cater to theme parks and entertainment venues. Quan's entrepreneurial journey is marked by a compelling fusion of technology and creativity, drawing on a diverse range of experiences that span across multiple industries.
One of his noteworthy early ventures was spearheading Shanghai Nightmare, the first Halloween haunted attraction in Mainland China. This unique endeavor showcased Quan's ability to merge his expertise in robotics, his experience as a haunted house actor during college, and the creative design insight of his wife. The innovative concepts developed during the creation of Shanghai Nightmare ultimately played a pivotal role in shaping Gantom’s core product offerings.
Education and Achievements
Quan Gan's educational journey is impressive, laying the strong foundation needed for his diverse career. He earned his MS in Mechanical Engineering, focusing on design, from the prestigious Stanford University. His dedication to furthering his education propelled him to participate in the Stanford-Tsinghua exchange program, where he studied as a visiting scholar at Tsinghua University, one of the top universities in China.
His academic foundation is further strengthened by a BS in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science with a minor in Mechanical Engineering, obtained from the University of California, Berkeley. This well-rounded educational background allows Quan to excel in innovative engineering and design, which is evident in all his ventures.
Core Values
Quan adheres to a set of core values that guide him in both his personal and professional life: persistence, integrity, curiosity, kindness, and self-reliance. These principles not only shape his character but also play a fundamental role in how he approaches challenges and opportunities in the entrepreneurial landscape.
Professional Organizations
Throughout his career, Quan has held various positions and participated in notable organizations, reflecting his multifaceted interests and expertise. As the creator and chief engineer at ZTAG, he is at the forefront of promoting children's health through innovative play. Previously, he has also served as a board member at S.T.R.E.A.M. Global Innovations, where he engaged with fellow innovators to advance educational initiatives.
In addition, Quan has shared his knowledge and experience as a member of the Asia Pacific Board of the Themed Entertainment Association, further establishing his reputation in the entertainment and technology sectors. His experience as the president of Shanghai Nightmare showcases his leadership skills and creativity in bringing engaging experiences to life.
Quan has also developed his technical expertise as a rotation engineer at Intel and had the opportunity to contribute as a summer intern at the renowned Microsoft Research Asia. His other experiences include a prestigious summer internship at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, which bolstered his technical acumen and exposure to cutting-edge technology. Furthermore, his role as a math and physics tutor at Math Support Services Inc has underscored his commitment to empowering others through education.
Personal Interests
Quan is an avid audiobook listener, dedicating time to explore a diverse range of genres, including business, self-help, history, and science fiction. His diverse literary interests reflect a curious mind eager to learn and grow continuously through the stories and insights shared by others. One of his all-time favorite books is Hermann Hesse's "Siddhartha," demonstrating his appreciation for profound, thought-provoking narratives that stimulate reflection.
In conclusion, Quan Gan is a dynamic leader and innovative entrepreneur whose commitment to improving children's lives is evident in his multifaceted ventures. With an educational background steeped in engineering and design, he creatively bridges the gap between technology and play. As he continues to nurture the development of ZTAG, his vision for a healthier and more connected future for children persists. Quan's journey is a testament to the potential of combining passion, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to core values to forge impactful solutions in today’s society.
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