In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we’re joined by Virginia McCrary of Torch Technologies to dive into the STEPs program—Society of Torch Emerging Professionals. As one of the program’s founding organizers, Virginia shares how STEPS has evolved into a key part of preserving and growing Torch’s unique employee-owner culture.

From trivia nights and paint parties to professional development and community outreach, STEPS creates opportunities for all employees—new and seasoned—to connect beyond their day-to-day work. Virginia discusses how the program adapts to meet the needs of a growing company, encourages intern participation, and fosters a strong sense of belonging across the team.

🎧 Tune in to hear how STEPS is keeping the Torch culture thriving—one event at a time.

Torch Technologies
https://torchtechnologies.com/

https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all

https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/

In this episode, we’re joined once again by Clay Hagan of Torch Technologies to talk about a major milestone in the company’s journey—becoming a Public Benefit Corporation (PBC) in early 2024.

Clay breaks down what it means to be a PBC, why Torch pursued this rare designation, and how it aligns with their long-term commitment to employee ownership, community impact, and sustainable growth. We dive into the multi-year process of transforming Torch’s governing documents, the unique responsibilities of being 100% employee-owned, and the importance of embedding purpose and values into the company’s foundation.

From their ESOP structure to their four core commitments as a PBC, this episode unpacks the why behind the move—and what it means for the future of Torch, its employees, and the broader community they serve.

Whether you're interested in the ESOP model, corporate governance, or building mission-driven companies, this episode offers a unique look inside a company striving to lead with intention and integrity.

Torch Technologies
https://torchtechnologies.com/

https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all

https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/

In this episode of Keeping The Dream Alive, we sit down with Aaron Thompson, Assistant Vice President for Advancement and Branding at Alabama A&M University, to explore the university’s 150-year legacy and its bold vision for the future.

Aaron shares how Alabama A&M is evolving through record-breaking enrollment, transformative campus projects, and a $150 million fundraising campaign focused on campus improvements, STEM infrastructure, and student scholarships. He also discusses the university’s deep connection to Huntsville’s growth and why students from across the country are choosing A&M for more than just academics—they’re choosing community, opportunity, and impact.

https://www.aamu.edu/

Torch Technologies
https://torchtechnologies.com/

https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all

https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/