Inspiration, Passion and Perseverance
The IES Young Professionals Scholarship Fund sponsored the attendance of six lighting design students at IES24: The Lighting Conference in New York City in August. The students—either in their junior or senior year of undergraduate school or enrolled in a graduate program—were encouraged to share their conference experiences, which are included below.
Mahya Fani
Attending IES24: The Lighting Conference in New York City as a recipient of the IES Young Professional Scholarship was an incredibly rewarding experience, one that significantly shaped both my academic and professional development. This event brought together a wide array of lighting professionals, researchers and industry experts, offering invaluable opportunities to learn, connect and grow within the lighting community.
Being awarded the scholarship was an honor that filled me with great anticipation. The conference exceeded all my expectations, starting with the Emerging Professional workshop, which fostered a welcoming and collaborative environment that allowed me to engage meaningfully with fellow attendees. Through interactive sessions, including a series of engaging games centered on lighting research, I had the chance to connect with both peers and seasoned professionals. These interactions helped me build a network of contacts that will continue to be beneficial as I move forward in my career.
One of the standout moments during the conference was our visit to the Perelman Performing Arts Center [LD+A, September 2024] with the lighting design team. This experience provided me with practical insights into the application of lighting design in the performing arts. It was an incredible opportunity to witness how lighting is used to shape and enhance artistic spaces, further deepening my appreciation and understanding of the field.
The conference’s academic sessions were another highlight. I attended several presentations from leading researchers whose work resonated closely with my own. Meeting these experts in person allowed me to engage in in-depth discussions about our shared research interests, gaining insights that have already begun to influence my work. These exchanges were invaluable, broadening my perspective on the field of lighting research and inspiring new avenues for exploration.
Additionally, I had the opportunity to interact with professionals from various industries related to lighting. These discussions broadened my understanding of potential career paths beyond academia and opened my eyes to opportunities I had not previously considered. I received practical advice on how to navigate the job market and align my research with industry trends, helping me to refine my long-term career goals.
I also delivered an oral presentation on my research “The Cognitive Impacts of Light: Investigating the Differential Effects of Momentary and Daily Exposure.” Presenting my work to an audience of academics and industry leaders was both challenging and rewarding. The constructive feedback I received has not only enhanced my current research but also informed the direction of future projects.
Another key aspect of the conference was my introduction to several IES Technical Committees. These committees focus on specialized areas of lighting research and development. Being invited to connect with professionals in these groups was an exciting opportunity that could lead to potential collaborations. I am eager to explore how I can contribute to these committees in the future, further solidifying my place in the lighting community.
Attending IES24: The Lighting Conference was a transformative experience. I left the conference feeling inspired and excited about my future in the field of lighting, and I look forward to participating in future IES conferences, where I can continue to grow and contribute to this vibrant community.
Michael Lekan-Kehinde
My IES24: The Lighting Conference experience started with my acceptance as one of the 2024 Young Professional Scholarship recipients in June 2024 while in Baltimore, MD, working on my thesis-focused research on improving indoor environmental quality (lighting and acoustics) in green buildings. Attending the conference was an amazing opportunity to continue to refine my knowledge and discuss my research with senior experts and colleagues in the field. The event provided a good opportunity to deepen my knowledge and appreciate projects that have demonstrated resilience, innovation and credence in lighting design, technology and implementation.
My arrival at the hotel and conference center, Marriott Marquis, Times Square, went smoothly, as I checked into my room and joined the group walking visit to Acuity’s office. During the trip, I had a discussion with Kelly Roberts about her work at Primary Arc Design. This created some synergy ahead of EP Day. Also, it was great seeing so many Young Professionals like myself, who were eager to ask questions about Acuity’s brands, its office and the lighting concept within its space. I was particularly interested in the Fresco brand geared toward expression of oneself through light.
My evening experience continued with a walking historical tour around New York City’s prominent buildings including St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Rockefeller Plaza, MoMa and AXA Equitable Center, reimagining the challenges the designers faced during their time and how they may have designed the lighting differently today if they had the opportunity to do so.
During EP Day, it was interesting listening to professionals including Peter Ngai, Cheryl English and Mark Roush, who have had remarkable careers in lighting, discuss their work and encourage EPs toward a brighter future. The Jeopardy! game served as an ice breaker and helped EPs connect better as a group while learning. Likewise, the interactive section with individual professionals was also enlightening, as I learned new words and concepts and was able to ask questions. The breakdown of roles including manufacturers who build products, sales representatives and distribution and business development opportunities, among others, provided valuable information about the industry.
During the third day, Amber Case sparked unique conversation around calm technology and encouraged the integration of the concept she discussed into illumination technology, especially with the embrace of AI. She referenced the book The Coming Age of Calm Technology in saying, “What matters is not technology itself, but its relationship to us,” which is a reminder that technology should think about people. (I believe that thinking about people also means thinking about the planet, which was also discussed during several sessions.)
Finally, I was appreciative of the opportunity to participate in the Illumination Awards Gala and to see the various projects, individuals and organizations that have demonstrated unique dedication to the advancement of lighting technology. Thanks to the funding opportunities provided by the community, I look forward to using the knowledge and network availed toward the development of self and others.
Thank you, IES, volunteers, sponsors and every contributor to IES24: The Lighting Conference.
Nano Obando
In August, I had the opportunity to attend IES24: The Lighting Conference thanks to the IES Young Professionals Scholarship. Held in New York City, it was a wonderful and enriching experience. From the first moment until the end of the conference, the cordiality and kindness of the event’s organizers made participants feel comfortable throughout the event. I believe that everyone involved in the field of lighting should, at least once, attend this conference.
Participating in EP Day was a great experience. Being in a room with people from different professions—designers, architects, engineers, Ph.D. students, among others—and different countries, with different cultures and of different ages, with whom we share the passion for lighting design, fed my knowledge not only from the technical side but also socially. One of the most exciting and fun activities was the “Game Show.” This interactive quiz allowed us to demonstrate our knowledge of lighting as we competed in teams for various prizes. The questions ranged from basic concepts to lighting design decisions. It formed a lively and competitive atmosphere that contributed to an activity we didn’t want to end.
Another fruitful activity was the networking session that provided us with a valuable opportunity to connect with lighting professionals. Here, I had the chance to talk with industry experts, share ideas and explore possible collaborations. This exchange of knowledge and experiences not only enriched my understanding of the lighting field but also strengthened my network of contacts within the industry, research and education. In particular, I found the table on research to be the most interesting because it is the field in which I operate.
The “Icons in Lighting” talks were another highlight, in particular, Peter Ngai’s presentation on how to indirectly illuminate spaces. I would also like to acknowledge the professionals in charge of the EP Day, who, in addition to showing a broad mastery of lighting knowledge, knew how to express it in an entertaining way.
The rest of the conference activities such as the sessions, papers and the industry Progress Report expanded my knowledge on various topics related to lighting. These talks provided deep insights into the challenges and opportunities in the field while inspiring those present to think creatively about the use of light in different contexts.
In conclusion, IES24: The Lighting Conference was an enriching experience that exceeded my expectations. It allowed me to acquire new knowledge and inspired me to reflect more deeply on the role of light in our lives. The activities in which I participated—the Game Show, networking, informative talks and the IES Illumination Awards Gala, made the event both educational and inspiring.
I would like to thank the IES for making it possible for me to attend this event that will remain in my memory forever, and I hope to be able to participate again next year.
Madeline Portway
I attended IES24: The Lighting Conference in New York City this past August as a sponsored Young Professional. I wasn’t sure what to expect initially, but I was very happy and thankful with how the weekend at the conference turned out.
The day before the conference officially started, I went to a pre-EP Day event at the Acuity Brands office. This event was open for Emerging and Young Professionals to come and meet each other before the conference, which I really valued; it made starting the next day less stressful when it came to meeting new people. It was also great to have an opportunity to tour the Acuity Brands office and see all the fixtures and luminaires that were on display in the showroom. A group of us eventually ended up on a terrace in the building overlooking the city, which was just fantastic. The weather, the company and the view felt like a great way to slowly close out the summer. EP Day was one of my best professional opportunities. I met many practicing folks in the industry as well as my peers, who were either still in school or new in the industry, which made me feel like I wasn’t alone in getting my career in lighting design started. The day kicked off with a Jeopardy!-like game where we split into teams to answer lighting industry-related questions. It was fun despite my team’s buzzer malfunctioning (which is the only reason why we could never buzz first or get any points—no other reason at all). After that, we listened to a panel of people from all over the industry talk about what their roles are within the realm of lighting. It was really interesting to learn about all the different aspects and jobs within this industry that previously I had not known existed. We had the chance to listen to some lighting legends: Peter Ngai and Cheryl English. I was surprised to hear that Peter Ngai basically created the concept and practice of indirect lighting (in modern times, of course). Indirect lighting was one of those things I learned in class that seemed like it had been around forever, so it was really cool to meet the man who patented it.
Toward the end of the day, we took a field trip to the Perelman Performing Arts Center to tour the lobby and theater. I was not sure what to expect walking up to the building based on its exterior façade, but I was immediately blown away climbing the steps and seeing the effect the stone walls made on the interior. It gave the project an otherworldly and enchanting aura inside. On top of that, the elegant and sleek lighting used for the lobby and restaurant pulled everything together. We toured one of the theaters to see the extensive luminaire set-up around the entire theater and were given a presentation by two of the lighting designers who worked on this project; they talked about the goals and challenges of illuminating the stone façades at night to give the cube-shaped building a gentle glow.
The next day, I watched the opening keynote presentation by Amber Case, which I found very interesting. It made me stop and think about all the technology I use in my life and how it was affecting me. Afterwards, I attended a few seminars covering a range of topics. My favorite seminar was Andra Zinkon’s presentation about how she lit up a unique sculpture in the downtown area of her home city; her design process and end result really emboldened me to continue on with my career path in becoming a lighting designer. The other seminars I attended were about topics I had little knowledge about. While much of the information went over my head, it only emboldened me to further continue my lighting education.
At the end of the day on Friday, I attended the Illumination Awards Gala. It was really inspiring to see these fantastic projects receive recognition for their lighting design. I also didn’t realize how international the IES really was until I saw that some projects were located in places like China, Greece and Japan. It was a fun night of celebration around these projects and with all the new people that I met. I felt like a real part of the lighting community on the dance floor that night.
I took the final day of the conference to explore New York, where I visited Manhattan and Williamsburg. While I was a little disappointed that I didn’t attend the seminars and other events held that day, I was so glad I took the time to enjoy the city. Many of the EP Day organizers encouraged us to go out and explore while we were there, and Saturday was the only day I had the chance. I’ve only ever visited the big tourist areas of the city on a family vacation once, so I really enjoyed just walking around and discovering the smaller, everyday beauty that New York City has to offer. I attempted to ride the subway out to Williamsburg, which ended in my giving up and walking to that area instead. Next time I visit the city, I hope to figure it out and explore farther from my hotel.
Overall, this conference was an invaluable experience to me as a student in lighting design. I gained a sense of community in this industry and made so many new connections to learn from and grow. I will be forever grateful to those who funded the IES Young Professionals Scholarship, and I want to say a huge thank you to all the members on the EP Committee and the conference organizers as a whole.
Kianoush Vali
Attending IES24: The Lighting Conference in New York was an invaluable experience that offered deep insights into the lighting industry, especially for someone at the beginning of their career like myself. The opportunity to interact with seasoned professionals, participate in discussions on the latest trends and explore various facets of lighting design has significantly broadened my understanding and appreciation of this field.
The IESNYC Section has always been supportive of Emerging Professionals, and this conference was a clear example of that. A key highlight was the guidance provided by industry veterans, referred to as “guiding lights,” who shared their expertise and experiences. This interaction helped me understand the entire project lifecycle, from the initial involvement of contractors to the challenges that arise along the way, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among designers, specifiers and contractors. Networking also played a significant role, as I had the opportunity to meet professionals who return each year to reconnect and share insights. These connections go beyond exchanging business cards; they foster relationships that can lead to collaborations, mentorship and ongoing professional growth. Being part of this community and engaging in events like this is truly an investment in my career development.
One of the talks with industry professionals that resonated with me was focused on healthcare lighting and the role it plays in patient care. The discussion emphasized the importance of designing spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also contribute positively to patient outcomes. The concept of evidence-based design in healthcare facilities was particularly intriguing. It involves using research and data to inform design decisions, ensuring that the spaces created support the health and well-being of patients. This session shed light on how lighting can impact the psychological and physiological states of individuals, which is crucial in environments like hospitals, where patients spend extended periods. I also learned that AI is set to revolutionize the lighting industry by automating processes and predicting needs, but creativity remains essential. Despite technological advances, human insight will continue to play a crucial role in design decisions.
One of the most valuable aspects of the conference was learning how research influences industry standards. I gained insights from experts directly involved in creating these guidelines, which highlighted the importance of staying informed and actively participating in these processes. The conference wasn’t just about acquiring knowledge; it also helped me step out of my comfort zone, engage in meaningful discussions, participate in workshops and fully embrace new opportunities.
Looking ahead, I am excited about the potential paths within the lighting industry that were highlighted during the conference. From healthcare lighting to circadian design, and from integrating AI to understanding the impact of lighting on human psychology, there are numerous avenues to explore. The conference has motivated me to continue learning, stay engaged with the IES community and contribute to the industry in meaningful ways.
Ryan Vanoni
This past August, I had the incredible opportunity to attend IES24: The Lighting Conference in New York City. It was an amazing experience, in which I connected with talented lighting professionals and gained insights from industry experts from around the world. My conference experience began on Wednesday evening at the pre-EP day event hosted by Acuity. We networked with Acuity employees and members of the EP Committee. One of the committee members was Mark Roush, the original lighting designer for the Acuity office. It was fascinating to hear his insights about the design and understand the importance of lighting in the space.
The next day was EP Day, which was easily my favorite part of the conference. The morning started with a game, which was a fun way to learn about lighting while connecting with my fellow EPs. Following this was a networking event. Among the many great people that I met, connecting with Lisa Reed stood out. It was wonderful to talk to someone who not only attended the University of Kansas (as I do) but also transitioned from an architectural engineering background to lighting design. Hearing her insights about this transition was invaluable. A recurring theme throughout the event was how tight-knit the lighting community is, and how once you’re in, it’s a hard industry to leave.
EP Day also included an Icons in Lighting event, where I heard from Cheryl English and Peter Ngai about their inspiring experiences in the lighting industry. A major talking point of theirs that stuck with me was the emphasis on embracing new opportunities. They stressed how this willingness often led to remarkable experiences and growth in their careers.
We then toured the Perelman Performing Arts Center. I had seen pictures of the project prior to visiting, but being able to witness it in person was aweinspiring. Hearing from the lighting designers about their design process and the challenges with the project that they overcame was fascinating.
The night ended with an EP reception, where I spoke with various seasoned lighting professionals who offered valuable advice on succeeding as a lighting designer. Amanda Fentress, Sara Schonour and Shoshanna Segal provided me with guidance on various questions I had and shared advice on succeeding in the field.
During the other days of the conference, I attended a variety of sessions covering topics from emerging lighting technologies to using AI to speed up the design process. It was enlightening to gain insights from experts on topics with which I had limited experience.
Overall, attending IES24: The Lighting Conference was an awesome experience. I feel very fortunate to have had this opportunity and am deeply thankful to the Young Professionals Committee for making it possible. The knowledge and connections I’ve gained are truly invaluable. There were so many wonderful people I was able to meet and amazing experiences I enjoyed. This conference not only broadened my understanding of lighting but also reinforced the importance of mentorship and community in our field. I look forward to applying what I’ve learned and staying connected with the incredible professionals I met.
Leanne Walters
IES24: The Lighting Conference in New York City is the first major conference that I have had the pleasure of attending since I began my academic journey in architectural engineering. The experience was both enlightening and humbling to me as a newcomer to the industry. The various panels and events held for the Young Professionals allowed me to meet many seasoned practitioners and gain insight into how those who have been in the industry for many years can create spaces in which people enjoy existing. The time that I was able to spend with industry professionals and product manufacturers has pushed me to keep learning as much as I can about lighting and the components that go into every design. Learning about these mentors and gaining them as resources to reach out to if I have questions in the future—as well as seeing my peers and their respective accomplishments—has been a great honor. There are numerous things left for me to learn, but the conference has made me feel that the lighting field is not just a place to provide illumination, but it’s also where we can appreciate what designers do for people and the spaces where they reside. Thank you to the IES for granting me the opportunity to enjoy this conference, and I look forward to participating in future events.
Member Mentions
Amanda Arikol has been promoted to associate principal of Tillotson Design Associates.
Carla Bukalski has joined Reed Burkett Lighting Design as principal of Strategy and Operations.
Brennan Schumacher has been promoted to principal/lighting practice lead at Mazzetti.
Michael Evenson has been promoted to principal design engineer at Acuity Brands.
CJ Billera (pictured left) has been promoted to national sales manager, retail, and Claudia Jean (pictured right) has been promoted to sales leader Lutron Electronics.
Liza Perritt has been promoted to customer care manager at The Lighting Group.
Bold + Individual or Sustaining Member
Peachy Keen
More than 900 attendees gathered in Atlanta for the 2024 IES Street & Area Lighting Conference in September. The event, held at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis, included educational sessions, an exhibit floor, networking events, and Casino Night. The following images are some of the highlights of the event.
