Mazda Toyota, Torch among ‘Newsweek’s’ ‘Greatest Workplaces’
MADISON COUNTY – “Newsweek” has announced its “Greatest Workplaces of 2026,” which includes 10 Alabama companies. Two local companies received the prestigious honor.
The companies that “Newsweek” recognized are Mazda Toyota Manufacturing that produces motor vehicles and Torch Technologies, a provider of defense and space manufacturing, according to “Business Alabama.”
“Based on extensive research and millions of data points, top employers stand out for leadership, fair compensation and work-life balance, proving that investing in people delivers lasting success,” according to “Newsweek.” “The qualification formula uses an analysis of 10 key metrics of employee satisfaction, based on more than 575,000 interviews and 7.6 million reviews.”
“Prioritizing a strong workplace culture creates a powerful ripple effect. Our extensive research shows that when companies genuinely invest in employee satisfaction, engagement naturally follows. This doesn’t just foster a thriving, loyal workforce . . . it drives in measurable success, boosting productivity and increasing profitability. A great workplace truly benefits everyone involved.” according to Jennifer H. Cunningham, “Newsweek” Editor-in-Chief.
Along with Mazda Toyota and Torch, the following Alabama companies qualified for the greatest workplaces. The list includes the companies’ products or services: • Construction Partners – Construction.
• Children’s of Alabama — Hospitals and health care.
• Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED – Manufacturing.
• RENFROE – Insurance.
• University of Alabama at Birmingham or UAB Medicine — Hospitals and health care.
• Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama – Insurance.
• Infirmary Health — Hospitals and health care.
• TruBridge — Hospitals and health care.
In additional kudos, Bill Roark, founder of Starfish Holdings, the parent company of Torch Technologies, received the “Business Alabama Lifetime Achievement Award.” These awards honor the state’s most impactful business leaders and are affiliated with “Business Alabama Awards.” (torchtechnologies.com/ news) “The Bama Buzz” works with Ala- bama businesses to create and promote original content, including articles, photo and video assets, social campaigns and more. (thebamabuzz. com/about) “Business Alabama” reports on large and small businesses in all sectors of the Alabama economy. From up-and-coming technologies to vital manufacturing groups, “Business Alabama” has been tracking the growth of the Alabama economy for 30-plus years. (businessalabama. com) Mazda Toyota Manufacturing’s address is 9000 Greenbrier Parkway NW in Madison, just north of Old Hwy. 20 near Greenbrier Restaurant. (mazdatoyota. com) Torch’s headquarters’ address is 4090 Memorial Parkway SW in Huntsville. (torchtechnologies.com)


