Uploaded August 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
Space tech, innovation, and inspiring the next generation. Cal Poly President Jeff Armstrong joins Tory to discuss the demand for engineers, STEM education, and sparking space inspiration through space technology.
The Burn Sequence, a podcast hosted by Tory Bruno, former president and CEO of United Launch Alliance (ULA), takes listeners on a journey through the evolving world of space exploration and cutting-edge technology. Drawing from his own personal experiences over several decades, Tory explores everything from rocket science and the future of space missions to the impact of AI, national security, and innovation in the aerospace industry. Each episode dives into what’s next for society--whether it’s the next leap for spaceflight, advancements in space exploration, or the technologies shaping our future on Earth and beyond. The Burn Sequence is about more than just rockets, it’s about the ideas, strategies, and breakthroughs that will define the next era of exploration and security. Tune in for thought-provoking conversations and a look at what the future of space will bring us.
00:00 Introduction to Cal Poly and STEM Education
02:49 The Importance of Early STEM Engagement
06:01 The Polytechnic Approach to Education
08:57 Industry Collaboration and Curriculum Relevance
11:53 The Role of International Students in STEM
15:00 Student Engagement and Extracurricular Activities
17:50 Technological Innovations from Space Programs
21:03 Personal Insights and Leadership in Education
23:48 Lightning Round and Fun Questions
Space tech, innovation, and inspiring the next generation. Cal Poly President Jeff Armstrong joins Tory to discuss the demand for engineers, STEM education, and sparking space inspiration through space technology.
The Burn Sequence, a podcast hosted by Tory Bruno, former president and CEO of United Launch Alliance (ULA), takes listeners on a journey through the evolving world of space exploration and cutting-edge technology. Drawing from his own personal experiences over several decades, Tory explores everything from rocket science and the future of space missions to the impact of AI, national security, and innovation in the aerospace industry. Each episode dives into what’s next for society--whether it’s the next leap for spaceflight, advancements in space exploration, or the technologies shaping our future on Earth and beyond. The Burn Sequence is about more than just rockets, it’s about the ideas, strategies, and breakthroughs that will define the next era of exploration and security. Tune in for thought-provoking conversations and a look at what the future of space will bring us.
00:00 Introduction to Cal Poly and STEM Education
02:49 The Importance of Early STEM Engagement
06:01 The Polytechnic Approach to Education
08:57 Industry Collaboration and Curriculum Relevance
11:53 The Role of International Students in STEM
15:00 Student Engagement and Extracurricular Activities
17:50 Technological Innovations from Space Programs
21:03 Personal Insights and Leadership in Education
23:48 Lightning Round and Fun Questions
