As the Director of Programming and Engagement at the NH Tech Alliance, Stephanie Baxter may be one of the biggest advocates for New Hampshire tech companies, but her story almost didn’t lead her back to New Hampshire. Read on to learn why Stephanie has chosen to dedicate her career to growing the tech ecosystem in New Hampshire.
How did you find your way to the NH Tech Alliance?
I’m originally from Manchester but went to school in Boston and found myself settling down in the Boston area with my husband and our growing family. I desperately wanted to move back to be closer to family but with his career as a software developer and the misconception that “there is no tech in New Hampshire,” that just wasn’t an option. After making the move anyways, I found myself working for the Union Leader in Manchester and discovered the booming, but unadvertised tech scene. Turns out, there WAS tech in New Hampshire! I stumbled across the Tech Alliance and really identified with the mission of amplifying the voices of local tech companies and connecting them with resources. I started as a volunteer for the Entrepreneur of the Year committee, and the rest is history!
What is one piece of information you know now that you wish you had known when you started your career?
Find something you love and always look to work with people you truly connect with – it makes a world of difference. My day-to-day involves overseeing membership, events, and community engagement, but it doesn’t feel like work! I really enjoy connecting with local founders, helping make an introduction or securing press coverage that changes the trajectory of our member companies.
What is your favorite part of working at the NH Tech Alliance?
My favorite part is getting to talk to so many different people and learn about the innovative products right here in NH. No two companies are the same, which is so unique. It’s truly inspiring to see so many entrepreneurs starting new ventures and solving problems every day.
What do you like to do in your free time away from your career and the NHTA?
I love to hike, ski and do yoga – pretty much anything that involves being outside is good for me! My two kids also keep me quite busy and we’re always looking for fun things to do.
Which entrepreneur or member of your industry do you admire and why?
It’s a cop-out, but I admire all of the entrepreneurs in New Hampshire. The courage and resilience it takes to start a company, especially in tech, is profound. Selfishly, I want my kids to be able to do what they want to do, while living where they want to live. Every tech entrepreneur is growing the foundation for future, local tech jobs. My kids will always know that there is tech in New Hampshire and that path is there for them if they choose.
To learn more about the New Hampshire Tech Alliance, connect with Stephanie or sign up for our weekly newsletter.