WILD Denver –

Posted on by Women in Lighting + Design

Checkout the podcast on lytepod that was released as a result of the culmination of a WILD denver workshop. The workshop focused on creating stable mentalities for design professionals featuring Shawna Bigby Davis.

Don’t wait until you’re completely burned out! This workshop, originally held as a Q3 WILD event in Denver, is now available on YouTube for immediate access. It’s your opportunity to break free from the exhausting cycle of constant push and pull that’s draining your energy and joy.

Led by Shawna Bigby Davis, a nervous system health coach focusing on trauma, somatics, and the gut for full-body healing, this powerful one-hour session is specifically designed for the woman who’s crushing it at work but feeling like her personal life is slipping through her fingers.

Here’s why this workshop is a game-changer:

• Uncover the secret language of your body
• Master real-time stress management techniques
• Learn how your nervous system holds the key to balance

Shawna reveals how to recognize if you’re stuck in fight, flight, freeze, fawn, or fold—and why it’s critical to guide your body back into the ‘rest and digest’ state for true emotional well-being. You’ll dive deep into the three stages of stress, with a special focus on the ‘fawn’ and ‘functional freeze’ responses, understanding how these states can trigger feelings of shame, especially for women.

This isn’t about surface-level fixes. We explore the core of burnout, equipping you with effective strategies to combat it. You’ll walk away with a personalized action plan to bring more spark to your work and more fulfillment to your everyday life.

Don’t let another day pass feeling overwhelmed and out of balance. Watch the workshop now and take the first step towards reclaiming your life. Your future self will thank you for taking action today!

Share this invaluable resource with your friends, colleagues, and anyone you know who’s struggling to find balance. Together, we can create a community of empowered, balanced individuals ready to thrive in both their personal and professional lives. hashtag#WILD
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A New Chapter in the Lighting Industry: Celebrating 20 Years & New Beginnings 

Posted on by Women in Lighting + Design

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 .

WILD “AFTER HOURS” – Meet The Women of WILD… Rachel Bauer

Posted on by Women in Lighting + Design

Member Feature:

Rachel Bauer is a well known friendly face in the world of lighting and design! She has been with Illuminations, Inc. for 17 years and has served on the WILD board of directors for the past 2 years as outgoing WILD National Chapter Chair and is also an active member of the Philadelphia Chapter. Take a look at what activity inspires and revigorates Rachel “AFTER HOURS“…

My passion is rock climbing. It’s a fantastic way to blend physical exercise with mental focus. I climb primarily in a gym, but sometimes I’m lucky enough to get outside. In a way it provides therapy to shut my brain off, decompress and just focus on the climbing problem in front of me. An added benefit is you can’t be on your phone! You need your hands free to carry you up the wall! About a year ago I started coaching Kinder kids, ages 4 and 5. It’s incredibly rewarding to share their enthusiasm for the sport. I cheer them on, and they light up when they conquer a new route. They surprise me every week with their determination. Climb on!

Photos below are from the highest peak in Slovenia, Mt. Triglav. 9396′

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A Bright Future for WILD and a Grateful Farewell

Posted on by Women in Lighting + Design

As this year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on my journey with Women in Lighting and Design (WILD), an organization that has been a cornerstone of my professional life for over a decade. What began as a collective of passionate, creative women with a shared vision has grown into a dynamic and influential community. It’s been an honor to contribute to that growth and witness firsthand the remarkable achievements of this organization.

Serving on the Board of Directors, and most recently as Past-President, has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my career. The friendships formed, the challenges overcome, and the goals accomplished together have shaped not only WILD’s trajectory but also my own. This incredible community has provided me with invaluable opportunities for growth and professional development, helping me evolve in ways I never anticipated.

In preparing to step off the Board,  I am incredibly optimistic about the path ahead for WILD. The next generation of WILD leaders is brimming with innovative ideas and a deep sense of purpose. Their vision will undoubtedly bring new opportunities to connect, educate, and advocate for women in lighting and design. I am excited to see how they will expand WILD’s reach and impact, ensuring that our mission resonates far and wide.

As I transition into a supporting role as an active member, I am filled with gratitude. To my fellow Board members, past and present: thank you for your trust, collaboration, and unwavering passion. To our members and supporters: thank you for believing in WILD’s mission and making it the vibrant community it is today. Your efforts remind us all why this work matters and how much can be accomplished when we come together.

The beauty of WILD lies in its resilience and its ability to adapt and grow. Each of us plays a part in that, and I look forward to continuing to support this community in new ways. As we prepare to usher in a new chapter, I encourage everyone to stay engaged, share your voice, and take pride in being part of a movement that champions equality, creativity, and excellence.

Here’s to the future of WILD—may it shine even brighter with the passion and dedication of its new leaders and the ongoing support of this extraordinary community.

Warmly,
Kelly Roberts
Past-President, Women in Lighting and Design

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WILD “AFTER HOURS” – Meet The Women of WILD… Alyssa Barton

Posted on by Women in Lighting + Design

Member Feature:

Alyssa Barton during the day is a  Regional Sales Manager at Marset but where during her free time, she shares her enthusiasm and energy with her community. She is a member of the WILD Chicago Chapter and also loves spending her free time getting integrated and involved in her community. She has done everything from painting faces at pumpkin fest, helping staff a snail race, picking up trash in the neighborhood, reading to the blind, and helping to set up and run a re-distribution center called the Parlor.

I love spending my free time getting integrated into my community. I have found volunteering to be a great way to do so. I have done everything from painting faces at pumpkin fest, helping staff a snail race, picking up trash in the neighborhood, reading to the blind, and helping to set up and run a re-distribution center called the Parlor. I love meeting people and hearing their stories and also giving my free time purpose.

Here are some photos of me at the Parlor. We specifically call out to the community things that are in dire need based on what our partners are requesting from us. We take clothes, gender affirming products, feminine products, baby supplies, egg cartons and toilet paper rolls just to name a few. Without the help of the egg cartons that normally get thrown away, our pantry partner had to cease distributing eggs because they only received them in large quantities. The toilet paper rolls were used to plant seedlings of native plants throughout the community. The people are fun, the stakes are low and I love making an impact on my generous community. Join me if you ever feel so inclined!

WILD Member Sheeba Benny named “Engineer of the Year” at Construction Week Awards Middle East 2024.

Posted on by Women in Lighting + Design

Congratulations to WILD Member Sheeba Benny for being awarded to have received the “Engineer of the Year” Award at the Construction Week Awards Middle East 2024,

What a fantastic achievement!

“As a woman in engineering, this recognition is not just a personal achievement but a reminder of the limitless potential we hold when we step forward, showcase our skills, and participate in opportunities that challenge us to grow.”

To all the talented women engineers out there: I encourage you to embrace your professional journey with confidence, let your work speak for itself, and take part in platforms that celebrate excellence and innovation. Together, we can inspire future generations and redefine the boundaries of engineering excellence.

Let’s continue to raise the bar and break new ground! 🚀

View details here…

Grief at Work & Starting at a Women Owned Business

Posted on by Women in Lighting + Design

The women I’m surrounded by in my workplace, as well as in the WILD community, have helped me immensely throughout my career, but especially over the past few years, where I have faced difficult loss and grief. After a long period of illness, my father passed away on May 19, 2024. Although the experience was a blur that I am still parsing through, one major takeaway is clear, and that is that I would not have gotten this far without a community, both personal and professional, and especially in regards to the support from other members of WILD.

According to the Roslyn Carter Institute for Caregivers, an estimated 18 to 22 of the US workforce is made up of family caregivers: “In addition to their paid jobs, approximately one in five employees serves as an unpaid caregiver for a loved one who is aging, ill, or disabled.”

I quickly learned that life isn’t like a movie, where work gets put on pause when personal issues take hold. Over the 18 months where my father was very sick, the world kept turning, projects continued, and deadlines came and went. I tried to balance it all, and it was only with the support of women who saw my struggle, that I was able to sometimes understand that it was okay to go slow and only do as much as I felt I could. I tried adding a lot to my plate to keep busy, but more times than I could count, I found myself seeking guidance from a friend, a woman, or another member of WILD, because I felt safe knowing that they would understand. I often needed a listening ear, an indication that they understood, and gentle encouragement to keep going, and they always delivered. 

When the opportunity came about to join SEED (a women owned design studio in SoHo,) just a few months after an immense personal loss, I knew that I would feel that same support and understanding when balancing life and work. While still battling moments of uncertainty, it’s been an uplifting opportunity for a professional rebirth through joining a team of creative individuals, where I can help to shape a diverse vision. I see clearly now how important it is for me to align my personal values with my professional work every day. I feel newly inspired to foster a supportive working environment and to invest in creating inclusive, healthy, and sustainable spaces for people. While each day still has its challenges, I welcome this fresh start with open arms, while remembering to give myself patience — and when I need that extra dose of motivation, I feel assured that I can look to my community.  

Did you know that November is National Family Caregivers Month?

WILD “AFTER HOURS” – Meet The Women of WILD… AJ Gorman

Posted on by Women in Lighting + Design

Member Feature:

AJ Gorman is a vibrant force in the world of lighting and design! After seven years as a lighting designer, she now serves as the Director of Business Operations at LightStanza, where she sparks creativity and innovation. As the Seattle Chapter Leader of WILD, AJ is dedicated to building a fun and supportive community for women & their allies in the industry. Her blend of expertise and enthusiasm makes her a standout in both her career and her community!

Outside of the lighting industry, AJ Gorman co-hosts “Cosmere Casual“ with her husband, a podcast designed for casual readers exploring Brandon Sanderson’s works and the expansive Cosmere universe. Each episode invites listeners to dive into Sanderson’s novels, highlighting themes, characters, and world-building in a fun and accessible way. Their lively discussions make the podcast an inviting entry point for newcomers, while still offering fresh insights for those familiar with his stories. Whether you’re checking out “Mistborn,” “The Stormlight Archive,” or other creations, “Cosmere Casual” enhances your appreciation for this beloved author!  

.https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/cosmerecasual

 Listen to this podcast on Spotify, Pocket Casts, OVercast, Apple, Audible, etc

Heritage Months and Identity Recognitions Feedback Initiative – September

Posted on by Women in Lighting + Design

SEPTEMBER: Latin Heritage Month

Mariana Gutierrez

NYC Sales Director

Coronet LED

MONTH: September: Latin Heritage Month

Celebrating my Latin heritage means taking the platform and step up for future generations of girls and women in creative industries, who, like me, may have grown up looking to roles in other countries & cultures due to the lack of visibility and existing roles in our own.

Interested in serving on the Board of Directors?

Posted on by Women in Lighting + Design

WILD is a volunteer run organization using the power of collected experience and action to drive change. See what positions are available and what past Chair’s can share about their experience and time serving.

  • President-Elect
  • Secretary
  • Chapter Chair
  • Marketing Chair
  • Membership Chair

Nominations are open August 14th – September 11

Nomination Form
Continue reading Interested in serving on the Board of Directors?