Jennica Holoquist

COMMUNITY EVENTS: Highlights from the NSTC’s Fourth Annual Women in Technology Forum

On Wednesday, October 15, 2025, the North Shore Technology Council (NSTC) held its Fourth Annual Women in Technology Forum themed “Navigating Transitions: Resilience Fueled by Passion.” West Hill is proud to support this dynamic event, which brought together some inspiring voices in tech and innovation to share stories of perseverance, growth, and transformation.

An Evening of Inspiration and Insight

The night began with a powerful keynote from Helen Greiner, PH.D., Co-founder of iRobot. From being captivated by R2D2 in Star Wars as a child to developing the iconic Roomba and groundbreaking military robotics, Grenier shared the highs and lows of her entrepreneurial journey. Her story was a vivid reminder that innovation often emerges from persistence in the face of failure and the courage to reinvent.

Real Stories from Real Trailblazers

Moderated by Tracey Curley, CEO and CFO of iSpecimen and NSTC Board Member, the panel featured a powerhouse of women leaders:

• Cynthia Bamdad, PH.D., CEO of Minerva Biotechnologies
• Liz Reczek, PH.D., Co-Founder & CEO of Sempresto, Inc.
• Michelle Chao, Co-founder & former COO of Phoenix Tailings
• Christine Ortiz, PH.D., Director, MIT Technology & Policy Program

Each panelist shared raw and real accounts of navigating life’s curveballs–from health challenges and personal setbacks to business pivots and team struggles. Despite the varied paths, a common thread ran through their stories: grit and resilience driven by passion.

Whether facing breast cancer of a loved one, divorce, or start-up failures, these leaders leaned into challenges as opportunities to learn, grow, and adapt. Their stories highlighted the importance of collaboration, calling on mentors, peers, and partners to forge new paths when traditional routes failed. From formative guidance in early career stages to reciprocal relationships with mentees, the discussion highlighted how meaningful connections can drive personal and professional transformation. The room buzzed with energy as the audience engaged with questions, sparking conversations of shared struggles and triumphs.

A Night for Connection

The Women in Technology Forum remains a platform for celebrating innovation, authenticity, and resilience within the tech community. As West Hill reflects on the evening, we remain inspired by the courage and wisdom shared on stage and are honored to support the NSTC in fostering a more inclusive and empowering future in technology.

“West Hill remains committed to supporting and elevating women in the legal community and in the technology businesses we work with,” said Louise Kennedy. 

About the NSTC

The evening concluded with remarks from NSTC President Gene Wong, the Dean of Science & Technology at Endicott College. For more information on the North Shore Technology Counsel please follow the NSTC on LinkedIn and visit NSTC.org for more info on joining their community and events.

About West Hill Technology Counsel

West Hill Technology Counsel is a boutique business and technology law firm. We offer proactive, practical legal guidance designed to prevent problems before they arise. Our clients are innovative start-ups and growth-stage companies that create or leverage technology as a core part of their business model. The support and empowerment of women is a critical component of the West Hill vision and mission. 

Meet the Team: Jennica Holoquist

In this series, we are introducing the West Hill Law team. We’re starting with Jennica Holoquist, a Business and Transactions Attorney who joined our team after graduating from Suffolk University Law School.

What areas of law are you most interested in?

In law school I was most interested in intellectual property, mainly trademarks and copyright, but since coming to West Hill, my interest and focus now includes business transactions and data privacy.

What drew you to West Hill?

A combination of the firm’s focus areas and company culture. I was excited that West Hill does IP work, which was my concentration at school. In addition, it handles other practice areas so I could expand my skills and knowledge base. I loved that the firm was a women owned business as I have always felt more comfortable and encouraged when being around women. As a young attorney, I was looking for the opportunity to be supported in my growth. I also really respected the mission of West Hill which is to provide effective and enthusiastic legal services to all our clients at competitive rates while respecting the needs of the legal staff.

How would you describe working at West Hill to a friend?

I often describe West Hill as a very collaborative work environment. The whole team is open to working together to put out the best work possible for all the clients. There is a good balance between having the space to bunker down and do the work on your own but also to run to a colleague and get their perspective on any issues. I would describe West Hill as open, dedicated, and encouraging.

What makes West Hill unique? 

The company culture makes West Hill unique. For example, I am someone who has struggled with asking for help which has the ability to hinder growth or efficiency.  At West Hill, that is not something I have to worry about. I can ask anyone here questions and they will be treated with understanding and responded to with care. In the short amount of time that I have been here, this has allowed me to grow as a lawyer and improve my client work. I will also add that the way West Hill cares about the clients is unique. Here you are not just another name on a file. West Hill does a great job of communicating with clients and really understanding both short and long term goals. The team helps clients plan for the best and most efficient way to reach those goals.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I love to dance, I did many different types of dance all the way through college. It’s something that brings me a lot of joy. I spend a lot of time with my dog Macfarlane mainly playing fetch (sometimes even in the house). I am also a big movie and television fan so I am always looking for something new to watch.

Why did you decide to become a lawyer?

From a very young age, I wanted to be able to support others who did not have the ability or the knowledge to do something on their own. I would say that is another reason I really like working at West Hill, especially with start-ups. I get the chance to help people grow their businesses or protect their work in a way that they might not be able to without that guidance and support.

Contact Jennica Holoquist

Click here for more information and contact info for Jennica.