About torchlight engineering
Principal
I’m Ryan Thompson, the principal engineer and licensed surveyor at Torchlight Engineering. With more than 25 years of experience in engineering and surveying, I’ve designed and overseen construction for a wide range of projects—roads, subdivisions, septic systems, site plans, stormwater management, soil analysis and reports, structural foundations, and complex drainage systems.
I am licensed as a Professional Engineer in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and several other states, and as a Land Surveyor in Connecticut. My professional involvement extends beyond project work: I currently serve on the State Licensing Board for Engineers and Land Surveyors, having been appointed by Governor Ned Lamont, and I am an active member of the Connecticut Association of Land Surveyors.
Before founding Torchlight, I served as Director of Public Works for the City of Norwich, Connecticut, where I led major infrastructure initiatives for over three years.
In addition to my civilian career, I am a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel with 25 years of combined service in the Army National Guard and Army Reserve. A decorated combat veteran, I deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Bosnia, experiences that shaped my commitment to discipline, leadership, and mission-focused execution.
Today, I bring that same dedication to every project I take on—ensuring my clients receive straightforward solutions, dependable results, and the highest level of professionalism.
Air. Land. Water. Full-Spectrum Surveying & Engineering.
At Torchlight Engineering, we deliver comprehensive surveying and engineering solutions by air, land, and water. Using state-of-the-art technology—LiDAR-equipped drones, hydrographic echosounders, and traditional total station and GNSS surveying—we provide precise data for projects ranging from residential developments to large-scale infrastructure and coastal mapping.
Our integrated approach ensures that whether the work is above ground, below water, or across complex terrain, we capture the full picture with accuracy, efficiency, and reliability. We don’t just collect data—we turn it into practical engineering solutions that drive projects forward with confidence.
Company Philosophy
At Torchlight Engineering, I believe the best engineering and surveying solutions are the ones that balance practicality, reliability, and long-term value. My goal is simple: deliver high-quality results that make sense in the real world—without unnecessary complexity or cost.
- Firm Mission
I provide full-service site development for residential and light commercial projects, licensed across multiple jurisdictions nationwide. Every project is approached with a focus on efficiency, dependability, and client trust.
- Common-Sense Solutions
Not every problem needs an expensive or complicated fix. I apply sound engineering principles to create cost-effective, code-compliant designs that work.
- Leadership You Can Count On
I don’t just provide calculations—I take ownership. I lead projects with confidence, manage timelines, coordinate with stakeholders, and see every job through to completion.
- Built on Integrity
Honesty, transparency, and ethical practice are at the heart of what I do. Every client relationship is built on mutual respect and trust.