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Friday, October 26, 2007
Ensynch Inc. chief tackles work, personal challenges positively
The Business Journal of Phoenix - by Ty Young Phoenix Business Journal
Jim Poulin/Phoenix Business Journal
Gene Holmquist
In 1979, an energetic, 18-year-old Gene Holmquist roared into Tempe astride a motorcycle, bug species from Chicago to the Southwest splattered on his helmet.
The high school wrestler was ready to make his mark at Arizona State University. He was looking for "fun in the sun" in a state he knew only through ASU's reputation as a premier wrestling school.
Nearly three decades later, Holmquist still is the engaging and outgoing spark plug people say he was then. Now, however, he's CEO of Tempe information technology firm Ensynch Inc.
While his sports career ended "about 60 pounds ago" and Ensynch is outperforming even his own expectations, Holmquist finds that life presents unexpected issues he must wrestle with every day.
He and his wife, Patty, have three children, but 8-year-old Vinnie requires the most attention, Holmquist said. Born with cystic fibrosis, Vinnie has endured seven surgeries during his young life. He spent nearly a month in the pediatric intensive-care unit as a newborn and must follow a nearly sterile lifestyle to combat germs that could prove deadly to his lungs and body.
Supporting Vinnie is proving to be another life-changing journey for Holmquist. But, unlike his cross-country ride to start college, the path to a cure for cystic fibrosis not a well-paved road.
"My wife and I have made the determination that Vin should have what all the other kids have," he said. "He has CF, but that doesn't mean he can't enjoy his childhood like other kids."
There are some things Vinnie cannot do, including flying in airplanes, being in large crowds or leaving home without antibacterial wipes. But Holmquist, a major supporter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, sees a beacon of hope drawing his family toward a cure.
From his initial days of despair after learning about Vinnie's condition, Holmquist has taken everything one step at a time, always moving forward.
"Although it is a tough disease, there's a lot of hope," he said. "We know what genes cause CF, and it's only a matter of time until we can find a cure."
Holmquist's support of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has been inspirational, said Jan Lee Sproat, executive director of the organization's Arizona chapter. His passion for the mission has astounded others and increased the foundation's presence in the Valley.
"Gene is the most positive and energetic person we have ever met," she said. "His passion for life and for finding a cure for cystic fibrosis is relentless."
He also has helped push his company to the forefront of Arizona information technology companies, said Arizona Technology Council President Ron Schott.
The council turned to Ensynch to outsource its IT needs when the organization began ramping up membership. Since then, Schott said some of the council's member companies have been drawn in by Holmquist's emotion and energy.
"It has been a pleasure to know him, recommend his company, and watch the success and growth of his company," Schott said. "Gene has always been focused on providing the best customer service to his clients."
Profile: Gene Holmquist
Title: President and CEO
Company: Ensynch Inc.
Web: www.ensynch.com
Age: 47
Wife: Patty
Children: Taylor Rose, 17; Geno, 15; Vinnie, 8
Education: Bachelor's degree in computer information systems from Arizona State University
Associations: Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Lost Boys of Sudan, American Diabetes Association, Arizona Technology Council, AeA, Arizona Technology Investors Forum
Q&A
Fan of breakfast? "Absolutely. It's the most important meal of the day. You know the saying: 'Eat like a king in the morning and a pauper for dinner.'"
Favorite sport to watch: "Football, hands down. I'm a big Chicago Bears fan -- my hometown."
Current read: "'Five Dysfunctions of a Team,' by Patrick Lencioni. Great book about how to build successful teams."
Favorite song while driving: "Ted Nugent, 'Stranglehold.' Loud."
Favorite memories: "All of my kids being born. I remember each one, in slow motion."
Greatest influence: "Mom and Dad. They taught me the importance of honesty, integrity and accountability in life."
Greatest fear: "Seen the movie 'Open Water'? Being left in the middle of the ocean with my snorkel, face mask and flippers."
Favorite vacation spot: "Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. I love authentic Mexican food and beer, tequila and the ocean. And, of course, Cabo Wabo."
Proudest career moment: "I have one every day, observing my Ensynch co-workers evolve, grow and succeed."
Childhood aspiration: "Funny car drivers John Force and Kenny Bernstein are my heroes."
Greatest challenge in your life: "Finding a cure for a cystic fibrosis."
How raising a child with CF changed your world view: "Only one thing matters, and that's living in the moment today and worrying about the future tomorrow."
Did you ever want to be a professional wrestler? "You bet. Stage name: Mean Gene, the Fighting Machine."
Business advice: "Never take yourself too seriously."
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