Calgary’s growing reputation as a centre for energy technology innovation received another boost this summer as two local executives have been named to Hart Energy’s 2026 40 Under 40.
Sean Hervo, Co-Founder and CEO of PrePad, and Brandon Myers, Head of Novi Intelligence at Novi Labs, are the only two Canadians recognized in this year’s class of emerging energy leaders.
Hart Energy, a leading U.S. energy industry information provider, selects its annual 40 Under 40 through an open nomination process recognizing professionals who have demonstrated leadership and significant impact within their organizations. The 2026 honourees span E&P, midstream, royalties and minerals, geothermal, finance, law and consulting, and were profiled in a special summer supplement of Oil and Gas Investor.
For Calgary, the recognition highlights the city’s growing influence in digital energy technologies.
Hervo co-founded PrePad in 2021 after identifying an opportunity to modernize drilling and completions planning through simulation-based software. Today, the Calgary and Houston-based company works with energy operators across Canada and the U.S., helping teams evaluate development scenarios and make better-informed decisions before capital is deployed.
“It’s an honour to be recognized by Hart Energy,” says Hervo. “While the award is presented to an individual, it really reflects the work of our entire team at PrePad and the trust our customers have placed in us. It’s also great to see Calgary represented, highlighting the strength of the city’s growing energy technology sector.”
The recognition follows another significant Hart Energy honour for PrePad. In 2025, the company received the Meritorious Award for Engineering Innovation in the Digital Oilfield category for its simulation technology.
PrePad has also been selected for the Chevron Technology Ventures’ Catalyst Program, announced a raise of C$3.9 million in seed funding in 2025, and continued to expand its customer base and North American presence.
Joining Hervo on the 40 Under 40 list is Myers, who leads Novi Intelligence at Novi Labs. Drawing on an equities research background with Calgary-based Peters & Co., Myers focuses on identifying data trends with implications for energy finance and geopolitics.
Novi Labs uses AI-powered analytics and proprietary energy data to help operators and investors evaluate assets, assess acquisition and divestment opportunities, and optimize development planning. The company has also recently expanded its presence in Canada.
“I graduated into the worst job market in recent memory. Ten years of innovation and perseverance has resulted in both Calgary and the industry flourishing once again,” says Myers. “This award has reminded me to reflect on that journey and take stock of what a success it has been. I’m undoubtedly standing on the shoulders of giants, and with Novi’s newly expanded presence in Canada, I’m excited to see what we can do.”
Together, Hervo and Myers reflect a broader shift underway in Calgary’s energy economy. While the city has long been known for producing energy companies and industry expertise, it is increasingly producing the software, analytics, and technology helping shape how the sector plans, invests, and operates.
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