Introducing the 25 Most Influential People in 2025

What does influence look like in lighting today?

According to the unnamed lead organization, that question sparked an independent review. From the start, the goal was clear. The process aimed to identify the most influential people, globally, through careful and structured review.

To achieve that, the organizer formed a three-pronged committee, made up of a leading lighting specifier, a leading manufacturer’s representative, and a leading lighting manufacturer. Together, they encompassed design, distribution, and production. As a result, the group approached the task from multiple sides of the industry.

That committee met over the past few months. During that time, members gathered peer input and shared perspectives. In addition, they debated ideas and compared outcomes. The focus remained on real-world results. For example, the committee examined work tied to human-centric lighting, controls adoption, data-driven design, sustainability, decarbonization, and education.

However, the lead organization stresses that visibility alone did not matter. Instead, the final list reflects impact. It highlights those who shaped progress across design, manufacturing, advocacy, and technology. Therefore, popularity played little role in the selections.

Meanwhile, the lighting industry continues to face change. AI integration is accelerating. Codes continue to evolve. Tariffs remain uncertain. Health-focused performance expectations are also rising. Against that backdrop, the organizers believe these 25 individuals represent the most influential people and help point to what comes next.

The 25 individuals selected will be announced on Monday, 12 JAN.

This article was updated on 6 JAN 2025