by: Mia Ferguson, LC, MIES, President
RED LIGHTING SOLUTIONS
As I reflect on the incredible journey of the past two decades in the lighting industry, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences, challenges, and opportunities that have shaped my career. From learning the ins and outs of this dynamic field to collaborating with some of the brightest minds in the business, each step has brought me to a pivotal moment — the decision to start my own lighting distribution and design services firm.
After 20 years of growth, innovation, and countless collaborations, I’m excited to announce the next chapter of my journey. This is not just a personal transition but a renewed commitment to the industry I’ve come to love. Leaving my corporate role to venture into entrepreneurship is driven by a desire to bring fresh ideas, innovative solutions, and a more personalized approach to the world of lighting.
When I was given the opportunity to be featured in this month’s WILD newsletter, I accepted with great enthusiasm. In this edition, I’ll share some of the lessons I’ve learned over the years, the inspiration behind starting my own company, and what lies ahead for both me and the lighting industry.
A Journey Begins: 2005
My path into the lighting world began in 2005 during my second year of college. I had just started a new family and was searching for a “real job.” After applying for several positions, I found myself in the office of Addison-Parrish Lighting, the Georgia rep agency for Cooper Lighting and Lutron, meeting with one of the owners, the late Larry Addison. Larry’s passion for the industry was contagious, and though he warned me that once you enter the lighting world, you never leave, I was hooked. I began as a receptionist, but quickly transitioned into customer service after it became clear that I needed more challenges.
Then, a pivotal call came from a recruiter searching for a customer service representative at Prisma Architectural Lighting. After meeting with EVP Dina Gohlke Hartley, I found myself inspired by her vision and leadership, which ignited a fire in me for this industry that has never burned out. The five years I spent working alongside Dina laid a solid foundation for my future in lighting.
The Next Step: Lighting Distribution
After gaining valuable experience in both rep agencies and manufacturing, I turned my attention to lighting distribution, working with some of the industry’s leading companies. Over the next 12 ½ years, I had the privilege of working at Regency Lighting, Power Design, and Facility Solutions Group (FSG), learning from some of the best and brightest in the business.
A New Beginning: Red Lighting Solutions
In April 2024, after countless conversations and prayers with family, friends, mentors, manufacturers, and clients, I took the leap and started my own company: Red Lighting Solutions. What started as a dream has now evolved into a business plan filled with promise.
As a woman in this industry, I’ve had the honor of working alongside some incredible women who’ve paved the way for my next chapter. While starting my own business was a bold step, it has been one of the most rewarding decisions of my life. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to connect with clients, network with new contacts, and offer a unique, personalized experience that I’m proud to provide.
The Highs and Lows
Like any journey, there have been both triumphs and challenges. One of the struggles has been navigating the complexities of working with long-standing industry contacts, particularly in a new business environment. Changes in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) standards have also influenced some of the deals and partnerships. But even in the face of these challenges, I am motivated to keep moving forward and growing.
Looking Ahead
As I continue lighting up spaces and lives, I am filled with excitement for the future. Starting Red Lighting Solutions has been an adventure, and I am so grateful to be part of such a vibrant and supportive community. I want to thank WILD for the incredible opportunity to share my story and for the ongoing encouragement and collaboration from my industry peers. I look forward to continuing this journey with all of you — and I hope you’ll join me as we light the way to new possibilities .
What a wonderful journey you’ve had! Thankful to be connected to you, Mia!