Two Long-Time Armstrong Employees Announce Retirement After Decades of Service
ASHLAND — Two familiar faces at Armstrong’s Ashland operation — together representing more than 75 years of service — are preparing to close an important chapter and begin new adventures in retirement.
Mike Edwards, System Technician-Lead, will retire after 40 years with Armstrong. Edwards has served the company in several roles over the decades, including as a Customer Service Representative, and most recently as the leader of the System Maintenance and Construction teams, a position he has held for the past 15 years. Company leaders credited Edwards with helping strengthen network reliability and performance during a period of continued growth.
Beyond the job, Edwards has also been a steady presence in the community, contributing time and leadership through organizations such as the YMCA and assisting local governments with efforts to broadcast content locally. A longtime City of Ashland resident, Edwards said retirement will allow him to spend more time with family — and continue work he enjoys as a certified referee for local volleyball organizations. His last day with Armstrong will be Feb. 27.
Also retiring is Sandy Burkholder, Office Supervisor/Community Marketing Manager, who will step away from full-time duties effective Jan. 30, 2026, following a 35-year career with the company. Burkholder has been a key part of the local office for years and has played a major role in customer service operations at Armstrong’s Claremont Avenue location for nearly two decades.
In addition to her professional contributions, Burkholder is widely known for her civic involvement, serving on numerous boards and committees including the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce, Noon Lions Club, Explore Ashland, Women of Achievement, Pathfinder Farms, and American Veteran Appreciation, among others. Armstrong noted that customers will miss seeing her familiar smile at the front desk — and the company will miss her commitment to excellence.
In retirement, Burkholder plans to spend more time with family, become more involved with her family’s ministry and Pathfinder Farms, and continue supporting local non-profit organizations.
Community Open House Planned
To celebrate their careers and allow the community to share well-wishes, Armstrong will host a public open house at the local office, 1215 Claremont Ave., on Thursday, Jan. 29, from 1 to 3 p.m.
For additional information, contact Mitch Piskur at mpiskur@agoc.com or 419-281-6349.
