Meet Our Member

The IESNYC spotlights a member each month whose volunteerism, perspective or personal story helps advance our goals, piques our curiosity, and makes the IESNYC become a more vibrant and diverse lighting community. We value their expertise and thank them for volunteering their time and energy for the betterment of the section and NYC Lighting Community. #the_iesnycmom

May 2024

Erin Krummenacker
Specification Representative
SLS

Q: How did you first get started in the lighting industry?
I studied Architecture for my undergrad and then worked in the field briefly, but then decided I wanted to find something else. The problem was I didn't know what that something else was. I just knew I wanted to stay in the design world, whatever my next career move would be.

While on the job hunt, I came across an ad for “Architectural Lighting Sales.” I didn’t know what that actual job was, but it had architecture in the title. So I went for it. Quickly I learned there’s so much more to lighting than I had ever thought about. To start with, it’s a lamp not a light bulb!

I was very fortunate to have had many mentors when I first started in lighting who really helped to show me the ropes: Diana Mesh, Adrian Howitt, and Mads Schmidt. These individuals took the time to go that extra mile and teach me about lighting and sales. I don’t know if they realized it at the time, but they helped me immensely and continue to help me, to this day.

I’ve been on both the agent and manufacturer sides and have enjoyed both for the past 12 years. While sales is definitely not the same as being a designer, it's still a great opportunity to be a part of so many great projects. While working at an agency you have access to so many wonderful brands. You’re able to assist designers in finding the optimal solutions for their projects.

While I’ve only worked for one manufacturer, Louis Poulsen, it was a wonderful experience. Coming from a design background and working for a manufacturer with such a rich history of product design was great. To me, being in sales is feeling confident in the products you’re selling and knowing where you can provide solutions to others.

I also find it essential to have experienced different sides of the business. I understand where all the parties are coming from, and what their needs are.

Q: How did you first get involved in the IESNYC?
When I first started in lighting, I was encouraged to attend industry events as a way to learn more about lighting and, of course, to meet people. The IESNYC was a great way to get immersed into the local lighting community. Early on in my lighting experience, I took the Fundamentals of Lighting course with the IESNYC. It was extremely informative, as I needed a lot of technical instruction. It served as a great stepping stone to learn exactly what I was getting myself into!

Q: How do you see your role as a member of the IESNYC?
My role as an IESNYC member has most definitely transformed over the years. Starting from not even knowing what the IES is, to now being a current board member of the IESNYC. Safe to say, my involvement has grown in the best way possible.

As a board member I’ve become much more involved. I’m enjoying this next-level participation and providing input. I’m part of the behind the scenes that keeps the IESNYC moving forward. I look forward to getting more involved in planning IESNYC events that serve different parts of our community.

Q: In your opinion, what are the best assets of the IESNYC?
One of the best assets of the IESNYC is the knowledge that different members hold. It’s important for veterans to share lessons learned with one another and with younger generations. And those younger folks will drive us all into the next design and lighting evolutions. I feel like I am mid-career and can help to serve as a bridge between them.

The IESNYC holds numerous events throughout the year to educate the lighting community and beyond, especially through local project tours. The Archtober events hosted by the IESNYC are some of my favorites. They showcase many projects that talented lighting teams complete, right in our own backyard.

In addition, the IESNYC does so much for local students, helping shape the future of the lighting community. Experience in the field is the best educator. This is why it’s so important for students to hear from practicing designers. There are opportunities and challenges that arise every day while working in the field, whether it’s design, manufacturing, distribution, or sales.