In the next installment of EdisonReport’s C-Suite Series filmed live at LEDucation 2025, Editor Randy Reid sat down with Sean Gaydos, President of USAI Lighting, for a candid conversation about the company’s evolution, its engineering-driven approach, and what’s next in architectural lighting.
A Legacy of Innovation
USAI’s roots date back to 1938 at the New York World’s Fair, where Bonnie Littman’s grandfather crafted the first metal trough for showcasing GE’s fluorescent lamp. From those humble beginnings, USAI has grown into a powerhouse of innovation in the lighting industry. “We are a family of innovators,” said Gaydos, emphasizing how that pioneering spirit continues to guide the company.
Initially a manufacturer of lighting fixtures, USAI has transformed into a technology company—and now, a solutions company. As lighting systems and project requirements grow increasingly complex, Gaydos believes the industry must move beyond specs like lumens and beam spreads. “It’s not just about numbers anymore,” he said. “It’s about solving problems.”
Engineering First
USAI’s commitment to innovation is backed by an impressive 18-person engineering team—with three more positions currently open—supported by nine sales managers. “Most companies have that ratio flipped, or smaller teams altogether,” Gaydos noted. This technical horsepower enables USAI to spend months perfecting optics, testing different LEDs, and creating custom solutions for projects like the fully bespoke lighting system developed for the Sphere in Las Vegas.
One standout innovation is USAI’s LittleOnes, a 1″ downlight that delivers 1,000 lumens and can be serviced entirely through its tiny aperture—an industry first. “There are other 1-inch fixtures out there, but ours is designed with long-term functionality in mind,” Gaydos explained.
What’s Next?
Without revealing too much, Gaydos teased an upcoming downlight concept that he described as “as transformative as our flat housing was” when USAI pioneered the move from 6″ to 2″ plenum heights. The new concept is expected in Q4 2025.
Wireless and Ceiling Integration
USAI’s agnostic approach to wireless controls allows them to partner with multiple platforms, including Lutron, Casambi, and Enlighted. Gaydos shared that Lutron’s first commercial wireless controls project, BlackRock in NYC, featured a custom USAI solution before the system was even branded Athena. “Lutron came to us because they knew we could figure it out,” he said.
USAI has also developed strong partnerships with Armstrong Ceiling Solutions. Together, the two companies have created lighting solutions that integrate seamlessly with metal, wood, and acoustical ceiling panels—complete with factory laser-cut tiles and precision-engineered installation systems.
Final Thoughts
As the conversation wrapped, Reid praised Gaydos and the USAI team for their continued leadership in the industry. With a clear focus on engineering excellence, custom problem-solving, and meaningful collaborations, USAI continues to set the standard for what’s possible in architectural lighting.