Leadership

After competing as a student for Virginia Tech in the 2004 and 2005 DARPA Grand Challenges, Michael Fleming founded Torc to save lives through the commercialization of self-driving technology. In 2007, Torc developed its first-generation self-driving software stack for team Victor Tango which crossed the finish line in 3rd place. Since then, Fleming has led Torc in deploying its technology across the trucking, automotive, transit, mining and defense industries.

Prior to joining Torc, Dr. Peter V. Schmidt was the head of the Autonomous Technology Group for Daimler Truck for three years. Before leading that organization, he managed the strategy organization for Daimler Truck, where his focus areas included the Chinese market, autonomous technology, electrification, connectivity and digital transformation

In his 12+ years at Torc, Andrew has been instrumental in guiding the strategy towards the commercialization of autonomous vehicles. He believes the fastest way to successful implementation is through collaboration, purposeful partnerships across a variety of markets and identifying industries that share Torc's mission of saving lives

Michael is an original member of the Torc Robotics Team dating back to the 2007 DARPA Urban Challenge and has been a part of Torc since our inception. As the principal engineering leader, Michael is responsible for all aspects of Torc's Autonomous Vehicle development and is a transformational leader who understands that our people are the key to Torc’s success.

Ben is one of the founding members of Torc and is responsible for driving innovation that guides Torc’s long-term focus. In his time here, he has worked closely with our counterparts across the globe and has helped develop a talented team of engineers who are not afraid to confront challenge.

Axel Gern is a long-time thought leader on autonomous trucks. He believes that combining Daimler Truck’s strong knowledge and expertise in system design and safety, with the software development skills from Torc, is a winning combination.

In 2020, John joined Torc to lead fleet operations, corporate operational safety and mission assurance focus for Autonomous Vehicle Testing and On-Road Operations. John has over 36 years of experience in government and civil service related to safety, quality assurance and aerospace engineering. His services includes time with NASA, the Federal Aviation Administration, and more.

Jane is the former vice president of marketing and communications for GE Digital and for Luna Innovations. She brings decades of experience in global customer marketing, product marketing, revenue marketing, and marketing communications to Torc, where she joins an executive team focused on commercializing self-driving trucks.

Marnie is the former vice president of human resources for Luna Innovations and GE Digital. She has steered companies through acquisitions, divestitures, and integrations, and the setup of international domestic office locations. She brings more than 25 years of experience in a variety of people optimization, management, and engagement roles to Torc.

Sandeep is the former VP of Products and Strategic Partnerships of Phantom AI, an autonomous-driving platform startup, where he helped define the product portfolio and strategy and create partnerships that drove the company towards commercialization. He brings over 20 years of experience commercializing safe products at scale for DaimlerChrysler, FCA and Harley-Davidson.