Keeping The Dream Alive

Episode 55: Employee Morale & Welfare Committee with Elizabeth Phoumavong

In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we sit down with Elizabeth Phoumavong of Torch Technologies to explore the work of the Employee Morale and Welfare Committee (EMWC). Elizabeth shares how the EMWC helps sustain Torch’s family-focused culture by organizing events ranging from company picnics and Christmas parties to ice cream socials, fall festivals, and community donation drives. She explains how the committee has evolved as Torch has grown, how employees across the company—including field offices—stay engaged, and why volunteer participation is such a defining part of Torch’s culture. We also discuss how new and longtime employees can get connected, find upcoming events, and get involved through committees and subcommittees.Torch Technologieshttps://torchtechnologies.com/https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=allhttps://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/

Episode 54: Employee Ownership Culture Committee with Andrea Beasinger

In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we sit down with Andrea Beasinger of Torch Technologies to explore the role of the Employee-Ownership Culture Committee (EOCC). Andrea explains how the committee energizes, empowers, and educates employee-owners through programs like ESOP Basics, deep-dive sessions, and quarterly lunches with the president. She also shares how employees can get involved, participate in events, or join the committee through Torch’s nomination process. It’s a clear look at how the EOCC strengthens connection, communication, and ownership across the company.Torch Technologieshttps://torchtechnologies.com/https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=allhttps://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/

Episode 53: Enterprise Program Management with Amanda Clark

In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we sit down with Amanda Clark of Torch Technologies to break down what Enterprise Program Management (EPM) is and why it plays such a crucial role within the company. Amanda explains how EPM oversees major umbrella contract vehicles, supports proposal efforts, and works across business units to align the right teams for each opportunity. She also shares how the group collaborates with leadership, business development, and technical teams to manage programs from pursuit through closeout. It’s a clear look at how EPM keeps Torch integrated, competitive, and focused on supporting both customers and employee owners.Torch Technologieshttps://torchtechnologies.com/https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=allhttps://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/

Episode 52: Artificial Intelligence with Joe Pierce

In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we sit down with Joe Pierce of Starfish Holdings to break down what artificial intelligence really is and why it has become such a major part of everyday life. Joe explains the differences between AI, machine learning, and deep learning, along with common ways we all use AI without even realizing it. We also dig into the biggest concerns companies face today—from privacy and data protection to the rising sophistication of AI-driven cyber threats. Joe shares how Starfish and the Torch family of companies are approaching AI responsibly while empowering their people and improving productivity. It’s a clear, grounded conversation about the opportunities and challenges ahead as AI continues to evolve.Torch Technologieshttps://torchtechnologies.com/https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=allhttps://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/

Episode 51: Air Force Weapons Group with Sam Burkett

In this episode, Sam shares his journey from starting his career at Eglin Air Force Base  to joining Torch in 2016, where he helped launch and grow Torch’s first Armament contract.  We also dive into the future of the Air Force Weapons Group and the talented leadership team Sam has built to continue Torch’s mission of serving the warfighter.Torch Technologieshttps://torchtechnologies.com/https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=allhttps://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/