March 2015

David Scheffer, LC
Project Manager
Osram Sylvania – Traxon Technologies

Q: How did you first get started in the lighting industry?
I always had a passion for energy efficiency. After receiving my degree in Chemical Engineering from University of Rochester in 2008, I decided to stray from typical “chem e” work, and looked directly to energy efficiency. This led me to my first job at an energy service company in Albany, NY. There, I learned about the energy project industry, picked up lighting auditing and design practices, and developed a passion for lighting and its importance within a space. After a year, I moved on to engineering, and came up to speed as an electrical designer at an MEP firm, focusing equally on power systems and lighting. In 2012, I seized the opportunity to move to the “big city,” with connections that led me to Osram Sylvania, specifically the Encelium group. In 2013, I moved internally within Sylvania to the Traxon group, shifting my role from energy efficiency to the exciting world of effect/color-changing lighting. At Traxon, I have enjoyed the opportunity to work with designers on some awesome project designs and installations.

Q: How did you first get involved in the IESNYC?
During my first month in New York City, I attended the 2012 Volunteer Drive, where I met Brian Belloumini, who is now the IESNYC’s vice president. Quickly sensing my enthusiasm and willingness to help, I was scooped up into the Membership Committee, which he chaired at the time, and I now chair. I also helped out with the Control This group and made many other contacts during my first year in the area.

Q: How do you see your role as a committee chair?
The Membership Committee encourages retention of membership and volunteerism within the approximately 600-plus members of IESNYC. The highlight of the committee is the Emerging Professionals Initiative (EPI). The EPI facilitates meet-ups of students and those new to the industry—with both formal/educational and informal meet-ups. In addition, the committee plans the annual IESNYC Holiday Party, as well as hosts the Volunteer Drive every other year. The committee assists at the Lumen Awards, facilitating the 5-year commemorative membership pins, and on-site registration. Throughout the year, the Membership Committee manages the section roster, sends renewal reminders, signs up new student members from Parsons, and facilitates any membership inquiries/volunteer requests. As chair of Membership Committee, I organize our internal planning meetings, and help out with any/all of the above activities as needed.

Q: In your opinion, what are the best assets of the IESNYC?
I feel the most important role of the Membership Committee and IESNYC in general is that of connecting those new to the lighting industry to industry veterans via in-person interactions. Getting everyone talking face-to-face at events is the best way for people new to the industry to both understand it, and to find to best fit for them.