In this episode of the Lighting Controls Podcast, Webster and Ron welcome back Umesh Baheti, SVP of Product and Engineering at MaxLite, to dive deep into the evolving world of lighting controls and smart building integration. Here's what you'll discover: 🏢 Trends in Lighting ControlsGrowing demand for better dimming and networked solutionsIntegration with Building Management Systems (BMS)Regional differences in code compliance (e.g., Title 24 in California, Local Law 88 in NYC) 🔗 BMS & HVAC IntegrationLighting Controls providing data to other building points (HVAC, Shades, Switched Outlets, Demand Response, Etc) for energy optimizationUse of Modbus and BACnet protocols for seamless communicationClear documentation and collaboration with system integrators 🔐 Cybersecurity & Data StrategyOn-prem solutions and Bluetooth mesh networks for secure deploymentEnterprise-grade features like Single Sign-On and API accessReal-world use cases: energy dashboards, occupancy heat mapping, and retail analytics 💡 The Future of Smart LightingLighting as a data source for business insightsChallenges of affordability and ROI justificationPilots, White Glove Service, and scalable solutions for enterprise clients Watch this episode for insights on how lighting controls are transforming buildings into smarter, more efficient spaces. Connect with Umesh:www.linkedin.com/in/umeshsbaheti Sponsor: MaxLite, maxlite.com, www.maxlite.com/cmax

Tired of garage-sale trainings and overpromised systems? So is John Wilson. In this episode, we dive into how he's revolutionizing lighting controls education with hands-on demo boards, utility-backed workshops, and brutally honest market insights.💥 What’s Inside:Why most controls education fails—and how John’s fixing itThe myth of “easy-to-use” systems (spoiler: they’re all 90% the same)How utility-funded demo boards are changing the game for reps and contractorsReal-world training scripts, simulated callbacks, and tactile learningWhy tier-two controls companies are quietly eating tier-one’s lunchThe grassroots retrofit revolution—and how it’s reshaping the marketWhy end-user education is the blind spot in rep agency training👀 Watch now to rethink how we teach, sell, and deploy lighting controls. Connect with John: Http://www.fernhillshopworks.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/fernhillshopworks  Sponsor: MaxLite, maxlite.com

What if lighting education wasn’t just theory—but full-contact? In this episode, Bruce Clark, the “Lighting Sherpa” himself, returns to unveil the Lighting Excellence Dojo—a hands-on, immersive training ground where lighting pros don’t just talk the talk… they throw the punch. 🔥 What’s Inside:Why learning about lighting design is like reading about martial arts—you’ve got to do it to learn itA behind-the-scenes look at the Dojo’s three-day, multi-station setup: from lecture bursts to real-world installsHow designers and installers cross-train to understand each other’s craft—and elevate the entire projectThe missing 90%: why most luxury homes don’t have lighting designers, and how the Dojo aims to fix thatThe future of controls training: from DALI deep dives to crafting control intent narratives that sing 💥 Tired of “glare bombs” and cookie-cutter installs? This episode is your call to level up. 🔗 Dive in. Get inspired. And maybe… throw a few punches of your own. Sponsor: mwConnect, mwconnect.us

What do DMX512, LP6, LP16, and RP42 have in common? Mitch Hefter. In this powerhouse episode, the legendary standards-maker returns to break down the protocols, practices, and pitfalls of lighting controls — from entertainment tech to architectural chaos. 💡 Highlights include: The wild world of dimming methods and how your fixtures communicateLP6’s total rewrite: 600+ pages of lighting control wisdomRP42 decoded — finally, a way to know what “dimmable” actually meansThe difference between 0–10V and 1–10V (yes, it matters)Upcoming changes to common standards and how you can get involved Whether you're a designer, distributor, or just tired of guessing what “line voltage dimmable” really means — this episode is your decoder ring. 🔗 Learn more about Mitch’s consulting work and the standards mentioned at mitchhefter.com #LightingControls #DMX512 #LP6 #LP16 #RP42 #LightingDesign #DimmingDrama #Podcast Connect with Mitch:NEC: nfpa.org/70usitt.orgesta.orghttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mitch-hefter Sponsor: MaxLite, maxlite.com, @maxlite

In this episode, we welcome back Nathan Williams—lighting controls expert and founder of Williams Lighting Control Services—for a deep dive into the real-world challenges and triumphs of lighting control systems. From daylighting dilemmas to commissioning chaos, Nathan shares boots-on-the-ground insights that every designer, technician, and stakeholder needs to hear. 🔥 Topics Covered:Why daylighting is more art than scienceThe critical role of foot candle set pointsHow poor documentation sabotages great systemsReal stories from school districts and performance venuesThe future of commissioning with LCA’s Design Express template 💬 “If you can tell a light is off, your daylighting is dead wrong.” — Nathan Williams #LightingControls #Podcast #NathanWilliams #Daylighting #Commissioning #SmartBuildings #LightingDesign #LCA #MaxLite #NAILD Connect with Nathan:www.LinkedIn.com/in/Nathan-Williams-LightingControls Sponsor: MaxLite, maxlite.com, @maxlite

Carol Jones has seen the lighting industry from every angle—design, standards, mentorship, and advocacy. In this episode, she reflects on her journey from engineering to lighting leadership, including her pivotal role in advancing DALI.   💬 What you'll hear: - Carol’s early career and transition into lighting  - Her work with IES and the development of TM-30 color metrics  - Why DALI matters for designers and how it’s evolved - Advice for emerging professionals in lighting   Carol’s perspective on DALI isn’t just technical—it’s about giving designers more creative control and flexibility. If you care about lighting controls, design freedom, or building a more inclusive industry, this episode is for you.   #LightingDesign #CarolJones #DALI #WomenInLighting #Podcast #WILD #TM30 #IES #designleadership    Connect with Carol: www.linkedin.com/in/caroljones-beyondlight   Sponsor: DALI Alliance, dali-alliance.org

In this episode, we welcome back Bryan Lussier—Lead Control Specialist at Apex Lighting and President of DLF New England—to talk all things Boston Lights, New England’s premier lighting design and technology show.🔥 What’s Inside:The evolution of Boston Lights and what makes it a must-attend eventBehind-the-scenes insights on curating seminars and speaker lineupsThe power of regional shows vs. national exposLighting controls, DMX, and the art of smart integrationHow architects, engineers, and designers can better collaborateWhy accessibility and education are at the heart of this year’s show 📍 Event Details: 🗓️ October 28, 2025 📍 Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport 🎟️ FREE admission to the show floor 💬 CEU-accredited seminars, live interviews, and 140+ vendors! 🔗 Learn more at BostonLights.org Be a part of the audience for an exclusive Boston Lights recording of the Lighting Controls Podcast. #LightingControls #BostonLights #SmartLighting #LightingDesign #Podcast #LightingIndustry #DLFNewEngland #MWConnect #LightingControlsAcademy #Architecture #Engineering #DesignInnovation Connect with Bryan: linkedin.com/in/bslussier https://www.apexlightingsolutions.com https://twitter.com/bslussier Https://www.facebook.com/ApexLightingSolutions https://www.linkedin.com/company/apex-lighting-solutions/ https://www.instagram.com/apexlighting_apexbuilding  Sponsor: mwConnect, www.mwconnect.us

In this illuminating episode of the Lighting Controls Podcast, we welcome Scott Rosenfeld, lighting designer at the Smithsonian Institution, for a deep dive into the art and science of museum lighting. Scott shares his journey from theatrical lighting to designing systems that protect priceless artifacts while enhancing the visitor experience. Discover how Bluetooth-enabled lighting controls are transforming historic buildings, why lighting design is as much about art as it is about technology, and how Scott balances conservation with innovation in some of the world’s most iconic museums. From the challenges of retrofitting century-old architecture to the subtle power of light in storytelling, this episode features insights for designers, tech enthusiasts, and museum lovers alike. #LightingDesign #MuseumLighting #Smithsonian #SmartLighting #BluetoothControls #LightingControlsPodcast #DesignInnovation #PreservationThroughTechnology #humancentriclighting Connect with Scott: Https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenfeld-fies-77b84412/  Sponsor: MaxLite, maxlite.com

Welcome back to the Lighting Controls Podcast! In this powerhouse episode, we’re joined by two industry legends, Gary Meshberg and Harold Jepsen, who dive deep into the evolving world of lighting controls and the groundbreaking new Sequence of Operations Matrix.🔍 What’s the Matrix? The Sequence of Operations Matrix is a free, editable Excel-based design tool developed by the Lighting Controls Association to simplify and standardize lighting control documentation. It’s built to help designers, engineers, contractors, and commissioning agents clearly communicate lighting control intent—space by space, system by system.🔥 What’s Inside:How the Sequence of Operations Matrix simplifies design, boosts efficiency, and bridges the gap between intent and executionWhy lighting controls are often misunderstood—and how to fix thatThe story behind the new LCA design tool that’s changing the gameReal talk on code compliance, best practices, and the future of lighting documentationWhether you're a designer, engineer, contractor, or just lighting-curious, this episode is filled with insights.Connect with Gary: Https://www.linkedin.com/in/garymeshberg/  Connect with Harold: Https://www.linkedin.com/in/harold-jepsen-p-e-well-ap/  Sponsor: MaxLite, www.maxlite.com

In this insightful episode, we welcome back Lyn Gomes—MEP Coordinator and President of the Building Commissioning Association—for a deep dive into the complexities of lighting controls, commissioning, and project coordination. 🔧 Topics Covered:The role of general contractors vs. subcontractorsWhy commissioning providers matter—and how budget impacts qualityThe importance of early coordination and Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR)Seven key data points for lighting system integrationHow historical data and button presses can improve long-term energy efficiencyTask tuning, aging fixtures, and designing for the long haulNetwork architecture challenges in modern building systemsWhy soft skills and negotiation are essential for young professionalsThe value of professional organizations and committee involvement 💡 Whether you're a designer, contractor, or building owner, this episode offers practical advice and real-world examples to help you avoid costly change orders and ensure project success. Don’t miss the upcoming Building Commissioning Association Conference:🗓️ October 22–24 | 📍 Pittsburgh, PA https://www.bcxa.org/conference/ Connect with Lyn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyngomes/  Sponsor:mwConnectwww.mwconnect.us

Welcome back to the Lighting Controls Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Chuck Cameron—Northeast Regional Sales Manager at ETC and a true veteran of the lighting world. From his early days in theater lighting to shaping architectural lighting design and education, Chuck shares a fascinating journey through the layers of light, control systems, and the evolving role of design in modern spaces.   💡 Topics we explore: - Chuck’s transition from theater to architectural lighting - Building a lighting design curriculum from the ground up - Why education in lighting controls is still lagging—and how to fix it - Real-world stories of design missteps and smart solutions - The power of nuanced lighting and dynamic control programming - How interior designers and architects can better integrate lighting controls - What every professional should know before specifying a system  Whether you're a designer, educator, engineer, or just lighting-curious, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and practical wisdom. Chuck’s experience and storytelling make this one of our most illuminating conversations yet.  Connect with Chuck: https://www.etcconnect.com/ https://www.nysid.edu/master-of-professional-studies-in-lighting-design https://be-exchange.org/ Living Lab Project, supported by BEEx: https://be-exchange.org/report/the-living-lab-demonstration-project/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuck-cameron-ltg/ Instagram: @chuckcameronltg   Sponsor: MaxLite, www.maxlite.com

In this special debrief episode of the Lighting Controls Podcast, hosts Webster Marsh, Ron Kuszmar, and Chris O'Shea—who also happen to be instructors—recap the inaugural session of the Lighting Specialist in Controls (LS-C) certification program (naild.org/ls-c/) hosted at Lightovation in June 2025.  🔥 Highlights from the episode: - 🧠 Behind the scenes of creating and delivering the LS-C certification - 🎯 Three skill tracks: Distribution, Design, Installation - 👩‍🎓 Anecdotes about student engagement, unexpected challenges, and successful learning pivots - 🛠️ Deep dive into the importance of soft skills, pre-wire coordination, and deciphering manufacturer documentation - 🔁 Reflections on terminology inconsistencies across lighting control systems - 🏁 The open-book final exam—turned group learning session due to tech hiccups—revealed strong participation and critical thinking - 💡 Takeaways for manufacturers, technicians, designers, and distributors alike The team also shares insights on future improvements, broader industry applicability beyond NAILD members, and excitement for the next certification session.  🔗 Website & Details: Visit lightingcontrolspodcast.com to explore previous episodes, certification info, and stay tuned for the next LS-C opportunity.  👉 Whether you’re a distributor, designer, rep, or technician—this episode shows how the LS-C program is equipping lighting professionals for the future. Subscribe, listen, and share if you’re ready to level up in lighting controls! 💡  Connect with Chris: www.controlforce.com  Sponsor: Dali Alliance, https://www.dali-alliance.org

Welcome to another electrifying episode of the Lighting Controls Podcast! This week, we're joined by industry leaders Jennifer Mason (Regional Sales Manager at QTL and VP of the Designer Lighting Forum of NY) and Nehal Yousef (Chairperson of NYControlled and Sales Manager at Diversified Lighting) for an in-depth conversation on the future of lighting controls and education in New York City.  Topics Covered:- The role of DLFNY and IES in advancing lighting education- Behind the scenes of NYControlled, NYC’s focused lighting controls conference- Insights from previous events and what’s new for 2025 - Spotlight on the hands-on workshop designed for early-career specifiers (0–5 years experience)- Growing interest from integrators, distributors, and manufacturers- The importance of demystifying controls to make them approachable and accessible- Trends in industry involvement, exhibitor expansion, and educational programming- How NYControlled is becoming a central hub for lighting controls learning & networking 📅 Save the Dates: Hands-On Workshop: October 14, 2025 (Limited to 30 attendees!) NYControlled Exhibition: October 15, 2025 at the Metropolitan Pavilion, NYC ✅ Whether you're a lighting designer, engineer, distributor, or just curious about the evolving world of lighting controls, this episode is jam-packed with insights, updates, and inspiration. 🔗 Watch the full podcast to hear how Jennifer and Nehal are shaping the future of lighting controls education—and how you can get involved! #LightingControlsPodcast #NYControl2025 #LightingDesign #DLFNY #LightingEducation #SmartLighting #LightingControls #IndustryEvents #NYCevents #LightingInnovation #NehalYousef #JenniferMason #TechTalks #HandsOnWorkshop #MetropolitanPavilion #LightingSpecifiers Connect with Nehal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nehalmyoussef/ Connect with Jennifer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-mason-78798814/ Sponsor: MaxLite, www.maxlite.com

Energy consultant Gina Rodda joins the show to break down California’s Title 24 energy code and why understanding code is essential for lighting professionals. From reading the code to avoiding costly mistakes, Gina shares expert tips, real-world stories, and why proper documentation matters.  💡 Topics include: - Title 24 and ASHRAE 90.1 - Code compliance pitfalls - ROI myths in lighting controls - Why controls matter for grid stability  #lightingcontrols #Title24 #EnergyCode #GinaRodda #BuildingCompliance #podcastshorts   Connect with Gina: gabelenergy.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-rodda-gabelenergy/

In this compelling episode of the Lighting Controls Podcast, we welcome Chris Bocchiaro—a dynamic force in the lighting industry with a career spanning theatrical roots, integration expertise, and public-facing light art installations. 💡 From his beginnings in Boston theater to managing landmark lighting projects, Chris shares how inside sales launched his journey, how integration reshaped his perspective, and why collaboration and creativity are key to successful lighting controls. 🌟 Topics Covered:- What “integration” really means in dynamic lighting projects- Challenges and solutions in outdoor temporary installations- Evolution of IP-rated fixtures for entertainment and architectural use- The role of inside sales in shaping lighting professionals- Box-building, DC power, and the future of controls infrastructure Whether you’re a student curious about lighting, a professional exploring new roles, or a tech nerd fascinated by controls and collaboration, this episode is packed with insights, personality, and real-world experience. Connect with Chris:www.clerestorylight.comwww.lslp.netInstagram: @clerestorylightLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-bocchiaro-54086743/ Sponsor:mwConnectwww.mwconnect.us

🎙️ In this episode of the Lighting Controls Podcast, Webster and Ron sit down with Wes Hacking, a lighting control specialist at Cooper Electric, to unpack how distributors can evolve into high-value integrators. From Wes’s theatrical lighting roots to his hands-on lab in Manhattan, he shares how Cooper Electric offers design-build services, in-house programming, and real-world problem-solving—well beyond the typical distributor role. They dive into common field issues like wiring mishaps, the benefits of testing gear in a lab setting, and why Wes insists on system integration that actually works before it hits the job site. 💡 Whether you're a contractor, specifier, or just curious about the brains behind smart lighting setups, this episode is a masterclass in how to future-proof projects and add value through specialized lighting controls expertise.  Connect with Wes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wphdesigns/ Sponsor: Maxlite www.maxlite.com

💡 In this Lighting Controls Podcast episode, industry expert Steve Mesh unpacks a real-world retrofit project in a high-rise office where four lighting control systems were tested. The outcome? Only the quadrant using LLLCs (luminaire-level lighting controls) worked flawlessly. It’s a compelling case for smarter design, clearer documentation, and better education in lighting controls installations.  🎧 Listen for practical lessons, wiring woes, and big takeaways on streamlining installations.  #LightingControls #SmartBuildings #LLLC #EnergyEfficiency #RetrofitSuccess #LightingDesign #BuildingSystems #ControlsIntegration #ConstructionInsights #PodcastRecap  Connect with Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-mesh-lc-iesna-b156b83 Sponsor: mwConnect www.mwconnect.us

In this episode of the Lighting Controls Podcast, our guest David Fox—Training and Outreach Specialist with ETC—dives deep into DMX512. He challenges the misconception that DMX512 is an unfamiliar protocol and explains its evolution from analog systems to a reliable, widely-used lighting control standard. From the history of saltwater dimmers to the practical rules of wiring and troubleshooting DMX512, this discussion is packed with valuable insights for both beginners and industry professionals.  After getting his start in high school running lights for a Sinatra impersonator in the back room of a Chinese restaurant in beautiful Burbank California, David Fox worked in California as a field service technician, production electrician, house electrician, console programmer, lighting designer, and monitor engineer for several theatres, live concert venues, feature films, and television productions. For the last 25 years, David has been at ETC starting providing frontline phone support. He then transitioned to managing technical support and customer service departments. Currently he works in the education center as the LMS Administrator and instructional designer developing training programs and presenting live and online classes. Since his start in the industry David has been passionate about learning and education believing that what we do is a craft and as such we all have a responsibility to pass along what we know to those who follow us. When not at work, he tries to do as little as possible and generally fails at it.  Connect with David: www.etconnect.com https://learningstage.etcconnect.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-fox-instructional-designer-curriculum-developer/ Sponsor: MaxLite www.maxlite.com

Join us in celebrating our 100th episode of the Lighting Controls Podcast! In this special milestone episode, we welcome Craig DiLouie from the Lighting Controls Association and Alexa Berger from NEMA to discuss the future of lighting education, workforce development, and technological innovation in lighting controls.   We explore the transition from Education Express to the new NEMA Academy, an all-in-one platform for industry professionals to access high-quality education and training. Plus, we dive into the evolving landscape of lighting controls, from wireless systems to AI integration and the growing demand for electrical professionals in the industry.   Big thanks to our sponsor MaxLite and to the Lighting Controls Association and NAILD for making the 100th episode possible!   📍 Learn more: NEMA Academy  💡 Explore past episodes:  Lighting Controls Podcast   Hit LIKE & SUBSCRIBE for more insights into lighting controls!   Craig DiLouie, LC, CLCP is a journalist and educator in the lighting industry and serves as education director for the Lighting Controls Association, a council of NEMA dedicated to educating the public about lighting control technology and application. He is also lighting columnist for tED Magazine and Electrical Contractor.   Connect with Craig: lightingcontrolsassociation.org https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdilouie   Alexa Burr is the Vice President of Strategic Growth & Market Development at NEMA, driving non-dues revenue growth through market expansion, strategic partnerships, and initiatives like the Make It American™ certification program. With prior leadership roles at API and ACC, she has spearheaded standards development, global advocacy, and sustainability efforts across the chemical and petroleum industries. Holding advanced degrees in global health from Georgetown University, she also serves as an EMT in the Washington, DC area.   Connect with Alexa: nema.org https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexa-burr/  Sponsor: Maxlite www.maxlite.com

Lighting controls are evolving, but do we all speak the same language? Join Webster Marsh as he and Chris O'Shea from Control Force tackle the biggest terminology challenges in the industry. From different definitions across the U.S. and Europe to the confusion between "dimmer" and "controller," this episode uncovers why consistency in terminology matters more than ever for professionals and newcomers alike! Are we using the right words? Watch now and find out!  Son of the founder of O’Shea Electric, Chris comes by this industry honestly. Finding his interest in theatrical lighting, he worked for, among others, Strand Lighting, Thea Enterprises representing Lutron, Chelsea Lighting, and most recently at PG Elite Lighting Service as Manager of Sales and Marketing. As Chris O'Shea Theatrical Lighting Design from 1996-2018, he has been a designer, stage tech, and board-operator for over 180 productions from the local church to Carnegie Hall. He is now the Head of Marketing and Business Development for Control Force.  Connect with Chris: www.controlforce.com  Sponsor: Maxlite www.maxlite.com