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.
Keynote Speaker Helen Greiner, PH.D., Co-founder of iRobot The West Hill crew: Kim Patrick, Annie Morgan, Jennica Holoquist, Kim Prior, and Kathleen Shaffer and Rachel Dines author of “How I Hacked the Moon.” Keynote Speaker Helen Greiner, PH.D., Co-founder of iRobot 
Tracey Curley, CEO and CFO of iSpecimen and NSTC Board Member moderated the panel and led the lively discussion. 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 
Kent Sinclair, Kathleeen Shaffer, Kim Prior, Jennica Holoquist, Rachel Dines and Annie Morgan 
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.
