Episode 7: Mentorship

What are the hidden secrets behind the successful collaboration and mentorship in the lighting design industry? 

In this episode, hosts Lisa Reed and Avi Mor are joined by Thomas Paterson, IALD, Director, Lux Populi SA de CV. Lux Populi is an architectural and artwork lighting design consultancy, based in Mexico, with clients throughout the world. In our conversation, we explore the importance of knowledge-sharing, the critical role of controls and commissioning, and the necessity of rethinking industry practices and education to better serve clients. 

Mentorship and soft skills play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the lighting design industry. As we reflect on personal journeys and the impact of mentorship, we discuss how investing in mentorship for mid-career professionals and teaching key soft skills can drive industry growth. We cover the significance of effective communication, relationship management, and collective action to foster a supportive and collaborative community. We’re sending out a “Call to Arms” to the entire industry to create opportunities for knowledge sharing and mentorship. 

In This Episode: 

• (00:00) The industry's camaraderie, knowledge-sharing, and focus on controls and commissioning for top-notch results 

• (08:18) Challenges and complexities of modern lighting in education and healthcare, including flicker concerns and the flicker validation process 

• (15:33) Aligning design principles with target audience's needs, engaging clients, and understanding first principles for effective and meaningful designs 

• (25:05) Generational differences in the industry, learning first principles, Thomas’ path  - from failed dancing to architectural lighting, mentorship and luck in shaping his unexpected journey in the industry, lighting opportunity with the band No Doubt 

• (33:06) Failures in passing knowledge and skills to the next generation in lighting design, mentorship and soft skills for effective professional interactions 

• (38:41) Overton window concept, troubleshooting education, formalized training, investing in mid-career professionals 

• (47:03) Investing in expertise, utilize industry-specific resources, and advocating for collective action in developing soft skills and mentorship in lighting industry 

• (55:04) Resources, industry collaboration and support in such an “odd duck” industry like lighting. Collaboration and time management are crucial in addressing community issues and taking action together for meaningful change, call to arms in the lighting industry 

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About the show:  

Lighting Matters is hosted by Lisa Reed and Avi Mor. In each episode, we’ll dig deep into the meticulous process of creating lighting design for architecture, showcasing industry leaders who balance artistic creativity with technical precision, and listen as they share their successes and challenges in architectural lighting design.  

Resources: 

Thomas Paterson LinkedIn 

Lux Populi  

Lisa Reed LinkedIn