Jessica Lillquist
(She/Her) | Partner & Co-Founder, Minlopro Partners | Wifey | Proud Mama | Architect
This year at Dreamforce, I was reminded that while our industry runs on technology, it moves forward because of people. I arrived expecting innovation and announcements; I left with something far more meaningful—a renewed clarity around the importance of empathy, connection, and human purpose in driving transformation.
Dreamforce didn’t just showcase what’s possible with AI and automation—it revealed how essential it is that we stay grounded in the human outcomes these tools are meant to serve.
The Power of Empathy and Authentic Connection
That message became clear the morning when I had the privilege of co-moderating the Women in Technology Breakfast. The room was filled with extraordinary leaders, but what struck me most wasn’t the accomplishments or titles of our guests—it was the authenticity and vulnerability shared in the conversations.
We talked openly about burnout, resilience, and the responsibility we carry as women at the forefront of an evolving technological landscape. It wasn’t about disruption for disruption’s sake; it was about building responsibly, leading with empathy, and designing solutions that elevate people.
That moment firmly set the tone for my Dreamforce experience and centered me on what truly matters: the future of innovation is not about replacing humans—it’s about empowering them.
Connection in Action
That energy carried into our pre-Dreamfest Happy Hour, where the theme of human connection came to life in a powerful and tangible way.
The turnout was incredible—customers, Salesforce AEs, partners, old colleagues, and friends of the ecosystem joined not for a formal agenda, but for genuine conversation. We celebrated customer milestones, explored strategic opportunities, and heard deeply personal stories about why this work matters.
The atmosphere was electric, not because of anything flashy, but because it felt real. It was a reminder that the trust we build with our customers and partners isn’t formed in meetings—it’s formed in moments of shared purpose.
Human-Centered Innovation
Throughout the week, as I walked the floor with customers, I watched their eyes light up—not at product features, but at possibilities. These weren’t conversations about technology in isolation; they were conversations about improving patient outcomes, reducing burnout, increasing access to care, and empowering frontline teams.
Dreamforce had all the excitement you would expect, but what resonated most was this shift: the organizations leading the way are those asking human-centered questions. Not “What can we build?” but “Who will this serve, and how will it change their lives?”
Growth that Inspires
One of the moments that personally stayed with me was learning that one of our PSAs had quietly prepared for—and passed—his B2B Solution Architect certification during the conference. He didn’t do it for recognition; he did it because Dreamforce inspired him to grow.
In a week filled with announcements about the future of AI, it was this moment of human ambition and personal achievement that felt like the true embodiment of forward momentum. It was a reminder that innovation is only as powerful as the people who choose to pursue it.
Looking Ahead
Dreamforce, for me, was not about technology trends—it was a powerful reflection of leadership in this new era. It reaffirmed that empathy is no longer a soft skill; it is a strategic imperative.
It is the foundation for designing meaningful solutions, building trusted partnerships, and inspiring teams to grow. As I look toward the year ahead, I am more committed than ever to leading with humanity at the center of every decision.
The tools will continue to evolve rapidly, but our greatest opportunity lies in how we apply them—to enhance connection, enable growth, and create purposeful impact.
