Sonepar Honors New LC Achievers at LightFair 2025
LightFair 2025 provided the perfect backdrop for Sonepar’s celebration of employees who recently earned their Lighting Certified (LC) credentials, and your humble editor was proud to be invited to witness the event firsthand. This meaningful ceremony marked a milestone not only for the individuals but also for Sonepar’s dedication to lighting expertise and professional growth.
A Significant Milestone
Bob Preston, who led the ceremony, set the tone early on. “It’s a tremendous personal accomplishment, and we all know the effort it takes to pass that test,” Bob said. “You deserve a big pat on the back.” His words captured the pride and hard work behind this achievement.
Key Supporters Recognized
The event highlighted the contributions of several mentors and leaders who played critical roles in guiding the LC candidates. Bob introduced industry veterans: Mark Roush, Dan Blitzer, Colleen Harper, Mary Beth Gotti, Tom Butters, and Mark Lien. Each of them contributed to the success of this inaugural group.
Marc Hodges, reflecting on the teamwork, said, “Bob did a great job pulling this together. We wouldn’t be here without his drive and dedication.” He also thanked Acuity Brands who generously sponsored the lunch. “Their support has been invaluable,” Marc added.
Company-Wide Commitment
Bob explained that Sonepar’s leadership prioritized LC certification from the beginning. “From our earliest discussions, senior leaders emphasized the importance of having LCs across the company,” he shared. Bob and Mark Roush even stayed in constant contact during exam season, celebrating each passing score like proud parents. “We were on the phone late at night, sharing the good news as each person passed,” Bob recalled.
Marc noted how far the initiative has come. “Honestly, I don’t think anyone expected we’d have this many certified so quickly,” he said. “This is just the beginning, and we’re incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together.”
Official Recognition
IES CEO Colleen Harper presented each recipient with an official LC pin to cap off the ceremony. She expressed her admiration, saying, “This is an excellent achievement. Your commitment and extra effort beyond the typical study group impressed us. Congratulations on your success!”
Colleen’s presence, along with Brienne Willcock and other IES leaders, underscored the event’s significance and added a layer of prestige to the recognition.
Looking Ahead
Bob wrapped up the event with an optimistic outlook. “We see this as the first step in building a robust community of LC professionals within Sonepar,” he said. “Our goal is to lead the way in lighting expertise across the distribution market, and we’re off to a fantastic start.”
Sonepar’s expanding team of LC-certified professionals highlights the company’s dedication to advancing knowledge, supporting its employees, and setting a high standard in the lighting industry.
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