Bylaw Changes Simplify Membership
The Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) welcomed 2026 with a concise IES Town Hall hosted by CEO and Executive Director Colleen Harper. The meeting lasted about half an hour and was recorded so that members who couldn’t join live may watch later. This session covered updates to the bylaws, an updated strategic plan, a new member dashboard, and staffing news, making it an important touchpoint for members.
First, Jared Smith, the 2026 IES president, outlined membership rule changes that members approved in the most recent election. The Society removed the associate grade membership and clarified the definition of honorary membership. He introduced two new categories—distinguished members and allied organization members. The distinguished category honors individuals who have made significant contributions to lighting. The allied organization category invites related groups to form stronger ties with IES. Jared also defined the qualifications for emeritus status. Because members voted on these changes, the membership structure will become easier to understand and more inclusive.
Strategic Plan Focuses on Modernization and Outreach
Next, Brianne Wilcox, Associate Executive Director for Strategy, Standards and Industry Engagement, presented an overview of the new strategic plan. She explained that the Society’s vision now reflects a wider global role. The plan lists four main priorities:
• Deliver Precise and Trusted Information
• Grow Global Brand and Relevance
• Energize Members and Modernize Structure
• Balance Tradition with Transformation
For example, Brienne mentioned updating the Fundamentals of Lighting course and reaching new markets. By aligning staff work with these goals, IES aims to remain relevant and open to new ideas, including AI. This proactive strategic plan suggests that the society understands the changing demands of the lighting industry.
The most exciting thing discussed at the IES town hall is their new vision:
“To become the leading global lighting organization dedicated to communicating the value of lighting quality to its members, allied professional organizations, and the public.”
This is bold!
IES has long held a strong international reputation, and in recent years its global presence has become even more visible. Next week, for example, IES will have a booth at Light + Intelligent Building Middle East. In prior years, Mark Lien has spoken at the event on behalf of the Society. That is just one clear example of international outreach that appears to be gaining traction. Your humble editor now encounters IES at many international trade shows, and we hear that these efforts are translating into increased international revenue.
New Member Dashboard and Auto‑Renewal
Attendees saw a preview of a redesigned member dashboard. Shane Skwarek, who leads the IT group, gave a live tour of the “My IES” portal. Members will be able to check their membership status, company links, subscriptions, and past orders in one place. The auto‑renewal option should reduce paperwork and help members maintain access to their benefits. Shane acknowledged problems with the earlier website migration and promised that the new dashboard will launch soon and offer an easier user experience. In short, this technology upgrade shows that IES listens to member feedback and makes improvements.
Staffing Updates Reflect Growth
Furthermore, Colleen shared staffing updates. Filling in for Graham Kirk, she announced several new hires made through a shared services agreement with the Audio Engineering Society. She noted that new team members, including Megan Carroll, have joined the organization, while several existing staff members have earned promotions. Taken together, these changes signal that IES is growing and once again investing in its people. After years of staff reductions, it is refreshing to see the Society adding positions. With additional support in place, IES is better positioned to execute its strategic plan and serve members more effectively—and it is safe to assume they would not hire these people if they could not afford them.
A Transparent and Engaging Future
Finally, the IES Town Hall closed with a brief question-and-answer period. Overall, the session highlighted the Society’s commitment to openness and clear communication. For the lighting community, the IES Town Hall showed a proactive approach to running the organization and should help the society stay ahead in a fast‑changing industry.
Go Deeper: Colleen Harper Discusses IES’s Shared Resource Plan