First, the Analyst takes the flashlight and crosses the bridge with the Associate.  This takes 2 minutes.  The Analyst then returns across the bridge with the flashlight taking 1 more minute (3 minutes passed so far).  The Analyst gives the flashlight to the VP and the VP and MD cross together taking 10 minutes (13 minutes passed so far).  The VP gives the flashlight to the Associate, who recrosses the bridge taking 2 minutes (15 minutes passed so far).  The Analyst and Associate now cross the bridge together taking 2 more minutes.  Now, all are across the bridge at the meeting in exactly 17 minutes.