Lightapalooza Education Session Tracks

Presented by: David Warfel

Offered Once - Wednesday January 22nd 1:30pm-4:30pm - 160 Minute Session - $75 (Fee Increases to $112.50 December 1st and $150 January 1st)

Level: Intermediate to Proficient

For: Architect, Design, Engineering, Interior Designer, Ownership, Sales

Light Can Help You, the industry-leading lighting design team in the custom integration world, closely guards its design secrets- until now. Take a rare peek inside the lighting design process guided by founding designer David Warfel in this step-by-step walk-through of lighting plans. Find out why Light Can Help you specifies very few fixed recessed downlights, where they put linear, and more in this seminar-style session. Sample plans will be provided; participants should bring pencils and erasers for following along.

Presented by: Peter Romaniello, IALD, Owner, Conceptual Lighting

Offered Twice Tuesday January 21st 8am-10am and repeats Wednesday January 22nd 3pm-5pm - 105 Minute Session - $50 (Fee Increases to $75 December 1st and $100 January 1st)

Level: Intermediate to Proficient

For: Architect, Design, Interior Designer, Ownership, Sales

Just as with speakers, TVs and shades, there are differences in quality and different features with each manufacturer.  The same is true with low voltage linear LED fixtures, but how do you know what to look for?  How do you defend your fixture choice when someone else on the “team” questions you or introduces an alternate fixture?  If you don’t know the minute differences, then everything is subjective and harder to defend.

Presented by: Peter Romaniello, IALD, Owner, Conceptual Lighting

Offered Twice - Tuesday January 21st 3pm-5pm and repeats Wednesday January 22nd 1pm-3pm - 105 Minute Session - $50 (Fee Increases to $75 December 1st and $100 January 1st)

Level: Intermediate to Proficient

For: Architect, Design, Interior Designer, Ownership, Sales

Just as with speakers, TVs and shades, there are differences in quality and different features with each manufacturer.  The same is true with recessed lights, but how do you know what to look for?  How do you defend your fixture choice when someone else on the “team” questions you or introduces an alternate fixture?  If you don’t know the minute differences, then everything is subjective and harder to defend.

Presented by: Peter Romaniello, IALD, Owner, Conceptual Lighting

Offered Twice Tuesday January 21st 10am-12pm and repeats Wednesday January 22nd 8am-10am - 105 Minute Session - $50 (Fee Increases to $75 December 1st and $100 January 1st)

Level: Intermediate to Proficient

For: Architect, Design, Interior Designer, Ownership, Sales

Knowing how to correctly place fixtures (especially recessed lights) is probably the MOST important thing for you to learn.  While there can be different subjective thoughts on how room should be lit, the correct spacing and correct distances off walls are much more objective measurements.   You have one opportunity to get it right…are you convinced that your thoughts are correct?

Presented by: Peter Romaniello, IALD, Owner, Conceptual Lighting

Offered Twice Wednesday January 22nd 10am-12pm and repeats Thursday January 23rd 10am-12pm  - 105 Minute Session - $50 (Fee Increases to $75 December 1st and $100 January 1st)

Level: Intermediate to Proficient

For: Architect, Design, Interior Designer, Ownership, Sales

Whether it’s a Picasso or a family portrait, artwork is important to a Client and it’s important to light it properly.  Recessed lights, track lights, framing projectors, and picture lights can all be appropriate but how do you choose?  What are the advantages and disadvantages of each one?  How do you space them correctly?

Presented by: Mariana Figueiro - Light and Health Research Center

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Offered Twice Tuesday January 21st 11am-12pm and repeats Thursday January 23rd 11am-12pm  - 50 Minute Session - $25 (Fee Increases to $37.50 December 1st and $50 January 1st)

Level: Any Level

For: Architect, Design, Engineering, General, Interior Designer, Sales

There has been a great deal of discussion over the past few years about the effects of light on human health and well-being. This is referred to by many different names, including circadian-effective lighting, human-centric lighting, circadian lighting, or simply healthy lighting. But what do these all mean?

This presentation will review the basic tenets of lighting that supports human health and well-being through circadian-effective lighting. Presenters will explain circadian rhythms and why these are important to people’s lives, including their effects on sleep and overall health.

Discussions will also include the important factors that make lighting circadian-effective, such as the timing of light, the duration of light exposure, the amount of light, light distribution, and the spectrum of the light.

Attendees will leave the presentation better able to explain the importance of circadian-effective light on human health and be better equipped to discuss its importance with their clients.

Presented by: Jennifer Brons - Light and Health Research Center

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Offered Twice Tuesday January 21st 2pm-4pm and repeats Wednesday January 22nd 3pm-5pm  - 105 Minute Session - $50 (Fee Increases to $75 December 1st and $100 January 1st)

Level: Intermediate to Proficient

For: Architect, Design, Engineering, Interior Designer, Ownership, Programmer, Project Management, Sales, Technician

This presentation will build on the content of Presentation 1 and provide attendees with a practical, step-by-step process to include circadian-effective lighting in the homes of their clients.

Content will include, first, how to assess a client’s daily routine and how they use various spaces in their homes during the day, evening, and nighttime hours.

Secondly, we'll focus on taking this information and developing lighting and control designs and strategies for various home spaces that will support your client’s health.

Thirdly, you'll learn what you need to know to assess various lighting and control products to select the ones that will best provide lighting that supports your client’s health and well-being throughout the year, including during time changes (i.e., daylight saving time).

Finally, we’ll cover the information needed to properly set up and commission lighting and control systems to ensure that the lighting provides the desired outcomes for your clients in a simple and effective manner.

Attendees will leave the presentation with the knowledge they need to begin providing circadian-effective lighting as part of their client offerings.

Presented by: Kevin Houser, PhD, PE (NE), FIES, LC, LEED AP

Professor, School of Civil & Construction Engineering, Oregon State University

Chief Engineer, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

Co-Founder and CEO, Lyralux Inc.

Offered Once Wednesday January 22nd 9am-12pm   - 160 Minute Session - $75 (Fee Increases to $112.50 December 1st and $150 January 1st)

Level: Proficient to Expert

For: Architect, Design, Interior Designer, Sales

This interactive workshop is designed to deepen understanding of how light reveals color in residential environments. Beginning with foundational color concepts, we'll explore the interplay between light sources, objects, and human perception. The workshop will progress to advanced topics, including chromaticity, correlated color temperature, and color rendering, with a special focus on TM-30 IES Method for Evaluating Light Source Color Rendition. Participants will gain practical insights into how spectral characteristics influence object appearance and learn to predict and design for optimal color experiences in high-end residential settings. Through dialogue and hands-on demonstrations, attendees will develop the skills to interpret technical color metrics and apply this knowledge to create visually striking and psychologically pleasing living spaces.

Presented by: Craig A. Bernecker, Ph.D., FIESNA, LC

Offered Twice Tuesday January 21st 8am-11am and repeats Wednesday January 22nd 8am-11am  - 160 Minute Session - $75 (Fee Increases to $112.50 December 1st and $150 January 1st) !!! Only Maximum of 15 Seats Available !!!

Level: Proficient to Expert

For: Architect, Design, Engineering

Photometry in Action is a hands-on workshop exploring luminaire photometry to be delivered using a bench-top goniophotometer fully capable of generating a complete luminaire photometric report, including luminous intensity and spectral data along with a .ies file. Since many lighting designers have not had an opportunity to actually see the photometric measurement process, but use luminaire photometry in their analyses and designs, this workshop provides an opportunity to better understand the photometric process and the data designers are typically using. This also introduces other disciplines to the information necessary to characterize the performance of a luminaire.

The workshop will feature participants working with the goniophotometer to actually measure a luminaire, and a presentation of the elements of a representative photometric report, essentially covering the “anatomy” of a photometric report. Luminaire selection criteria, such as luminance recommendations, will also be addressed.

Presented by: Craig A. Bernecker, Ph.D., FIESNA, LC

Offered Twice Tuesday January 21st 4pm-5pm and repeats Wednesday January 22nd 2pm-3pm  - 50 Minute Session - $25 (Fee Increases to $37.50 December 1st and $50 January 1st)

Level: Proficient to Expert

For: Architect, Design, Engineering, Interior Designer, Sales

Photometry; What Do I Do With It? Is a workshop complementary to Photometry in Action, focused on comparing luminaires once photometric files are generated and using the photometric data to conduct analyses.

Participants will learn how to:

• Generate photometric reports from .ies files 
• Choose a luminaire for a specific application 
• Conduct inverse square law calculations? 
• Conduct an Agi32 analysis 

Presented by: Craig A. Bernecker, Ph.D., FIESNA, LC

Offered Twice Wednesday January 22nd 3:30pm-5pm and repeats Thursday January 23rd 8:30am-10am - 80 Minute Session - $37.50 (Fee Increases to $56.25 December 1st and $75 January 1st)

Level: Intermediate to Proficient

For: Architect, Design, Interior Designer, Engineering, Interior Designer, Sales

This session, grounded in the IES RP-11-20 guideline, offers a clear and concise exploration of lighting design tailored specifically for homes. It covers essential principles such as the use of lighting layers (ambient, task, and accent), fixture selection, and effective control strategies to enhance comfort, functionality, and energy efficiency. The session will also touch on the integration of natural light into residential lighting plans. Ideal for professionals seeking to elevate their knowledge of residential lighting standards, this course provides practical insights for designing beautiful and functional living spaces.

Presented by: Greg Barrett

Offered Once Wednesday January 22nd 1pm-53pm  - 105 Minute Session - $50 (Fee Increases to $75 December 1st and $100 January 1st)

Level: Intermediate to Proficient

For: Architect, Design, Engineering, Interior Designer, Sales

The beauty and effectiveness of lighting often boil down to the details, and at the forefront of these details is the science of optics. In this session, dive deep into the practical aspects that define a high-quality beam of light.

Uniformity: Discover the importance of consistent illumination, exploring the techniques and technologies that ensure a beam devoid of hotspots and shadows.

Beam Angle to Field Angle Ratio: Understand the nuances of beam spread and its implications on lighting design, ensuring optimal light distribution for various applications.

Accent Lighting: Delve into the art and science of highlighting specific objects or areas, learning how to create focal points that capture attention and elevate spaces.

Wall Washers: Dive into the techniques to achieve smooth, even illumination on vertical surfaces, exploring the balance between light intensity and distribution.

This session is perfect for professionals, hobbyists, and anyone keen on mastering the intricacies of optics in lighting. With a blend of theory and real-world applications, attendees will leave with a sharpened understanding of what makes light not just bright, but right.

Presented by: Greg Barrett and Amer Maleh

Offered Twice Tuesday January 21st 8am-9am and repeats Thursday January 23rd 10am-11am  - 50 Minute Session - $25 (Fee Increases to $37.50 December 1st and $50 January 1st)

Level: Any Level

For: Architect, Design, General, Interior Designer, Ownership, Sales

Residential Illumination from Rome to Now - Lighting has been an essential part of human habitats for millennia, reflecting the evolution of culture, technology, and design. This session embarks on a luminous journey, tracing the history of residential illumination from the grand villas of ancient Rome to the modern, smart-lit homes of today. Delve into the transition from oil lamps to candles, gaslights to incandescents, and LEDs to intelligent lighting systems. Explore how societal shifts, technological breakthroughs, and design revolutions have shaped the way we light our homes. Through tales of innovation and adaptation, this session offers a rich tapestry of insights, highlighting the profound impact of lighting on domestic life throughout history. An illuminating experience for design enthusiasts, historians, and anyone curious about the legacy of light in our homes.

Presented by: Matt Bernath

Offered Twice Tuesday January 21st 9am-10am and repeats Wednesday January 22nd 1pm-2pm  - 50 Minute Session - $25 (Fee Increases to $37.50 December 1st and $50 January 1st)

Level: Any Level

For: Finance, Operations, Ownership, Sales

Adding or growing sales in a new category can be challenging. This course is your solution! Discover strategies to effectively track opportunities, boost close ratios, and increase job sizes—all without working any harder. Learn clear, approachable methods to transform your sales approach in these growing markets. Join us to turn industry-specific insights into outcomes and drive predictable sales results with less effort in lighting, shading, and power.

Presented by: Ron Callis and Kendall Clark

Offered Twice Tuesday January 21st 8am-9am and repeats Wednesday January 22nd 2pm-3pm - 50 Minute Session - $25 (Fee Increases to $37.50 December 1st and $50 January 1st)

Level: Any Level

For: Finance, HR, Operations, Ownership, Sales

When it comes to sustainably growing your lighting, shading, and power service categories, implementing a strategic marketing plan for 2025 that helps the right prospects find you, engage with your business, and convert into new customers is necessary. In this session, we’ll guide you through a step-by-step approach to building a growth-driven marketing plan tailored to your budget, timeline, growth goals, and ideal customers. We’ll cover everything from creating awareness and visibility around your brand to ensuring that prospects know what you’re selling and that you’re the go-to expert in your field. You'll walk away with 8 actionable steps to design a marketing plan that not only captures leads but also nurtures them into long-term customers. Don’t miss this opportunity to unlock the power of marketing to drive consistent growth and profitability for your business.

Presented by: Matt Bernath

Offered Twice Tuesday January 21st 11am-12pm and repeats Wednesday January 22nd 3pm-4pm  - 50 Minute Session - $25 (Fee Increases to $37.50 December 1st and $50 January 1st)

Level: Any Level

For: Finance, HR, Operations, Ownership, Sales

Unlock the power of financial insight in this accessible session designed for owners and managers at every level. No complex jargon—just clear, actionable knowledge. Learn to navigate Gross Margin, Financial Efficiency, and Cash Flow with confidence. Tailored for businesses growing their lighting, shading, and power categories, you'll gain a fresh perspective on financial fundamentals that you can apply immediately. Walk away empowered to make informed decisions that drive your business forward.

Presented by: Ron Callis and Samantha Hodz

Offered Twice Tuesday January 21st 10am-11am and repeats Wednesday January 22nd 4pm-5pm  - 50 Minute Session - $25 (Fee Increases to $37.50 December 1st and $50 January 1st)

Level: Any Level

For: Finance, HR, Operations, Ownership

Once you’ve mastered the art of selling and are driving profitable growth in lighting and shading categories, the next challenge is building a team that can take your business to the next level. But when is the right time to hire? And how do you ensure you’re attracting and hiring top talent? In this session, we’ll dive into strategies for identifying key moments in your business growth that signal it’s time to bring on new personnel. We’ll also provide insights into developing a recruitment plan that attracts people who align with your company culture, growth goals, and skillset needs. From understanding when to hire to finding and retaining A-players, this session offers practical, industry-specific insights to help you build a team that can grow your business.

Presented by: Jason Sayen 

Offered Twice Tuesday January 21st 10:30am-12pm and repeats Wednesday January 22nd 10:30am-12pm  - 80 Minute Session - $37.50 (Fee Increases to $56.25 December 1st and $75 January 1st)

Level: Any Level

For: Design, Engineering, Finance, Operations, Ownership, Programmer, Project Management, Sales, Technician

In this workshop attendees will learn the importance of process documentation and how it

can be used to develop a process for the category of Light Fixtures by identifying phases and milestones of a Light Fixture project and determining who is responsible. We will cover the different types of documentation (Written and Visual) and how each type plays an important role in their business. Owners will walk away with Lean Six Sigma tools and methodologies that they can use immediately to start documenting Lighting Fixture processes within their business. The first 45 minutes is the presentation and the remaining 45 minutes will be used as a workshop where attendees will use the tools taught to start developing internal processes related to Light Fixture Sales, Design and Installation.

Led and Moderated by: Jason Sayen

Offered Twice Tuesday January 21st 3:30pm-5pm and repeats Wednesday January 22nd 8:30am-10am- 80 Minute Session - $37.50 (Fee Increases to $56.25 December 1st and $75 January 1st)

Level: Any Level

For: Design, Engineering, Operations, Ownership, Programmer, Project Management, Sales, Technician

Description - In this round table discussion, we'll explore best practices for business development

activities in the lighting fixture category. Learn effective strategies for getting into projects early to

discuss lighting fixtures and leverage tools like CEU courses to engage key professionals such as

architects, designers, and design-build offices.

We'll cover:

Identifying and targeting the right audience

Pre-event planning and logistics

Crafting compelling presentation pitches

Demonstrating products and showcasing your work

Effective follow-up and relationship building

Example questions for the group to facilitate conversations

How are you presenting lighting fixtures to your clients currently? What’s working or not working?

What have been your challenges in getting into the lighting fixture category? Selling the job, Designing

the project or project management?

What has helped you be successful in the Lighting Fixture Category?

Presented by: Bruce Clark and Lynne Stambouly

Offered Twice Tuesday January 21st 9am-10am and repeats Wednesday January 22nd 10:30am-11:30am - 50 Minute Session - $25 (Fee Increases to $37.5 December 1st and $50 January 1st)

Level: Beginner to Intermediate

For: Design, Engineering, Ownership, Project Management, Sales

"No plan of battle survives first contact with the enemy" is a famous wartime maxim used by generals for well over a century, and we believe that applies to the tenuous journey that a lighting plan must undergo to survive, particularly in the residential space. Multiple and competing professionals, personalities and perspectives often seem hell-bent on derailing the best of design intentions. We believe that a little forethought, planning and improvisational skills can keep a project on track in order to realize a successful design vision in spite of all the challenges inherent in the project gauntlet.  This session  focuses on one of  two primary tools in the integrator's lighting toolbox: Architectural Recessed Downlights.  (Linear LEDs as the second of the two)

Presented by: Bruce Clark and Lynne Stambouly

Offered Twice Tuesday January 21st 2:30pm-3:30pm and repeats Wednesday January 22nd 9am-10am - 50 Minute Session - Offered Twice- TBA $25 (Fee Increases to $37.5 December 1st and $50 January 1st)

Level: Beginner to Intermediate

For: Design, Engineering, Ownership, Project Management, Sales

"No plan of battle survives first contact with the enemy" is a famous wartime maxim used by generals for well over a century, and we believe that applies to the tenuous journey that a lighting plan must undergo to survive, particularly in the residential space. Multiple and competing professionals, personalities and perspectives often seem hell-bent on derailing the best of design intentions. We believe that a little forethought, planning and improvisational skills can keep a project on track in order to realize a successful design vision in spite of all the challenges inherent in the project gauntlet.  This session  focuses on one of  two primary tools in the integrator's lighting toolbox: Linear LEDs.  ( Architectural Recessed Downlights as the second of the two)

Presented by: Steve Girard

Offered Thrice Tuesday January 21st 9am-13:30am and repeats Wednesday January 22nd 1pm-2:30pm and repeats Thursday January 23rd 1pm-2:30pm - 80 Minute Session - $37.50 (Fee Increases to $56.25 December 1st and $75 January 1st)

Level: Beginner to Intermediate

For: Architect, Design, Engineering, General, Sales, Technician

In this lecture, we will delve into the fascinating world of electrical power systems in modern homes, with an emphasis on solar, battery backup, and backup generator systems. This understanding will help you communicate effectively with your clients about the functionality and benefits of these systems. 

First, we will establish a solid foundation with an explanation of voltage and current. Next, we will discuss different types of power and energy. Lastly, we will look at equipment ratings and see how they apply to designs of large residential systems.

Attendees will leave with a better understanding of electrical terminology and concepts. This lecture is intended to be interactive and engaging. Curious minds are encouraged to attend!  

Presented by: Larry Dashiel, Owner, Summit Technology Group and Steve Girard

Offered Twice Tuesday January 21st 3:30pm-5pm and repeats Wednesday January 22nd 10:30am-12pm - 80 Minute Session - $37.50 (Fee Increases to $56.25 December 1st and $75 January 1st)

Level: Intermediate to Proficient

For: Architect, Design, Engineering, Sales, Technician

This session delves into the essential elements of designing and implementing successful renewable energy systems for residential and commercial projects. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of the full project lifecycle, including initial client consultations, energy audits, system design, equipment selection, and installation. The presentation emphasizes practical approaches to balancing energy production, power conditioning, and backup requirements, ensuring optimal performance and customer 

Key Takeaways:

• Learn how to assess client energy needs and expectations to create tailored renewable energy solutions.
• Explore the intricacies of energy demand profiling, system sizing, and selecting the right equipment for your project.
• Gain insights into power conditioning, storage calculations, and the importance of complying with regulatory codes and safety standards.
• Understand the complete process from preliminary design to installation, commissioning, and client training for long-term system success.

This presentation is ideal for professionals looking to enhance their knowledge in the booming renewable energy market and drive profitable, reliable projects.

Presented by: Jimmy Pashke and Vince Luciani

Offered Twice Tuesday January 21st 10:30am-12pm and repeats Wednesday January 22nd 3:30pm-5pm - 80 Minute Session - $37.50 (Fee Increases to $56.25 December 1st and $75 January 1st)

Level: Intermediate to Proficient

For: Architect, Design, Engineering, Programmer, Project Management, Sales, Technician

Are your LED systems vulnerable to flicker, failure, or premature burnout? Power disturbances, often unnoticed, can silently wreak havoc on your lighting systems, leading to costly repairs and frustrating interruptions. In this session, you'll uncover the hidden threats posed by inconsistent power and learn the essential strategies to safeguard your LEDs. We'll dive into practical solutions to protect your lighting from surges, voltage drops, and interference, ensuring your lights operate smoothly and efficiently. With expert advice and a LIVE demonstration, you'll walk away with the knowledge and tools to bulletproof your LEDs, guaranteeing flicker-free, reliable lighting for years to come. Whether it's for your home or clients, this session is packed with actionable insights to help you maintain bright, uninterrupted lighting—no matter what power challenges arise.

Presented by: Brett Tallada, PSI

Offered Twice Tuesday January 21st 9am-10am and repeats Wednesday January 22nd 8:30am-9:30am - 50 Minute Session - Offered Twice- TBA $25 (Fee Increases to $37.50 December 1st and $50 January 1st)

Level: Beginner to Intermediate

For: Architect, Design, Engineering, Interior Designer, Ownership, Sales, Technician

Are you looking to master the essentials of DMX lighting control? This introductory course is designed for anyone wanting to understand the fundamentals of DMX (Digital Multiplex), a reliable and widely-used lighting control protocol developed in the 1980s. Despite the rise of newer technologies, DMX remains a robust and essential tool for managing lighting effects in both commercial and residential projects.

In this session, you’ll gain a comprehensive overview of the key components of a DMX system, from controllers and fixtures to channels and universes. You’ll also explore the basics of setting up a DMX system, including fixture addressing, cabling, and the architecture needed for both small and large-scale installations. We’ll also cover how to extend DMX systems using repeaters, splitters, and networked systems, ensuring attendees leave with a clear understanding of how to build and scale their own setups.

Whether you're new to DMX or have some experience, this course will provide the foundational knowledge needed to confidently specify, install, and troubleshoot DMX systems in your projects.

Presented by: Brett Tallada, PSI

Offered Twice Tuesday January 21st 3pm-4:30pm and repeats Wednesday January 22nd 2:30pm-4pm - 80 Minute Session - Offered Twice- TBA $37.50 (Fee Increases to $56.25 December 1st and $75 January 1st)

Level: Intermediate to Proficient

For: Architect, Design, Engineering, Interior Designer, Ownership, Sales, Technician

This advanced 90-minute course is tailored for proficient to expert-level integrators looking to apply DMX technology in large-scale, high-end luxury residential projects. Focusing on the complexities of designing and managing multi-universe DMX systems, this session will dive into the advanced techniques required to create seamless and sophisticated lighting control solutions for luxury homes.

You will explore critical topics such as system design and documentation, addressing the unique challenges of specifying and scaling DMX systems in residential environments. Learn how to integrate multiple control protocols while maintaining reliability and aesthetics. Attendees will also get hands-on insights into advanced DMX programming and the commissioning process, ensuring flawless implementation from start to finish.

Whether you’re tackling large-scale lighting designs or seeking to enhance your expertise in DMX integration, this session will equip you with the advanced tools and strategies necessary to deliver exceptional results in luxury residential projects.

Presented by: Aaron Severston, Vantage Legrand

Offered Twice Tuesday January 21st 10:30am-12pm and repeats Wednesday January 22nd 10:30am-12pm - 80 Minute Session - $37.50 (Fee Increases to $56.25 December 1st and $75 January 1st)

Level: Intermediate to Proficient

For: Architect, Design, Engineering, Programmer, Project Management, Sales, Technician

Looking at today’s options for lighting and controls could seem intimidating. Architectural lighting has evolved into an opportunity never seen before to design and deliver beautiful living spaces. In this course we will examine the various technologies used in today’s architectural lighting, identify necessary control requirements, and equip you with knowledge and tips for being successful with today’s wide selection of illumination solutions.