My introduction to lighting came through frequency—gigahertz—which framed it in a technical context. What pulled me in even deeper was the realization that light touches everything: safety, comfort, accessibility, mood. We don’t actually see light itself; we see what light allows us to see. That blend of science and influence is what makes lighting so compelling—light reveals the world around us and shapes how we experience spaces, often without us noticing.
Nationals Park in Washington, D.C., stands out as a favorite. I had the opportunity to document the sports lighting system from on top of the stadium! Seeing the full scale of the lighting set-up was a powerful reminder of how light shapes memorable experiences for players and baseball fans.
I get to work with a wide range of people across the industry, from agents and specifiers to engineers and architects, coaches, and directors as well as designers and publishers. Each group brings their own unique lens to lighting, and those diverse perspectives make my work ever dynamic. One conversation is never like another, which keeps me curious and constantly learning.
Lighting is highly technical, and marketing in this industry requires a balance between complex specifications and engaging messaging. For every group I work with, from suppliers to engineers to end users, there is a different way to communicate value. As a marketer, this takes ongoing collaboration and communication to tell stories that resonate, build brand awareness, and go beyond light to convey what truly matters.
Lighting should be part of broader conversations around inclusion, accessibility, and sustainability. Beyond efficiency, useful light should create equitable environments where everyone can feel secure, safe, and supported to live, play, and thrive. One industry session that stayed with me explored how lighting affects neurodivergent individuals; a reminder that visibility does not equal comfort. The future of lighting is not only smarter but also more human. Bolstering young professionals and bringing new voices into these conversations is essential.
I would love to work on a high-profile, global lighting project in collaboration with leading architecture and engineering firms, an initiative that challenges both creative thinking and strategic coordination across regions. I’m especially interested in contributing to the design storytelling that brings these projects to life and helps audiences understand the role of lighting in how spaces are experienced around the world.
The Emerging Professional column explores issues affecting younger lighting professionals and those new to the industry.