PANEL DISCUSSION
Andrea Wilkerson, PNNL | Carla R. Bukalski, Reed Burkett Lighting Design | Anne Kustner Haser, AKLD Lighting Design
Location: Sutton North
TuesdayMarch 18, 2025
1:30 pm - 3:00 pm EST
Credits 1.5 LU | Elective
Intermediate
The initial boom of LEDs was fueled by promises of longevity and energy savings. But a decade later, what happens at end-of-life? With energy incentives fading and original manufacturers potentially gone, the reality of non-replaceable components is challenging. This session dives deep into data and real-world projects to advocate for a shift in LED design: prioritizing replaceable components. By embracing this shift, designers and manufacturers can solidify their reputations as responsible innovators, building trust and ensuring long-term success. Join us for a dynamic discussion of this critical issue and discover why replaceable LED components should no longer be a future aspiration.
Learning Objectives
- Assess the real-world feasibility of replacing the components of currently available lighting products
- Evaluate the sustainability, equity and business tradeoffs of integrated LED products compared to products with replaceable LED components
- Apply lessons from real-world projects and conversations with clients and facility mangers to inform design and manufacturing decisions
- Understand current activities in the lighting industry and in adjacent industries that are successfully encouraging the use of replaceable components
Speakers
Andrea Wilkerson
Senior Lighting Research Engineer
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
Andrea Wilkerson is a Senior Lighting Research Engineer at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, focusing on the evaluation of emerging lighting technology in support of the U.S. DOE SSL Program. She earned her doctorate from Penn State and her BS and MAE from the University of Nebraska in the respective architectural engineering programs. Andrea serves as an Associate Editor of LEUKOS (journal of the IES), on the National Council on Qualifications for the Lighting Professions (NCQLP) Exam committee, the Oregon State University School of Civil and Construction Engineering Industry Advisory Board. Andrea has served on the IALD Education Trust Board and on many IES committees.
Carla R. Bukalski
Principal of Strategy and Operations
Reed Burkett Lighting Design
Carla Bukalski, MBA, PE, LC, LEED AP is the Principal of Strategy and Operations at Reed Burkett Lighting Design (RBLD), where she brings over 30 years of experience in the lighting industry. A dynamic leader with expertise spanning engineering, design, and manufacturing, she has returned to her roots in lighting design, integrating technical rigor with creative vision to drive exceptional results.
Carla began her career as an electrical engineer, earning her PE license while working on large-scale projects at a prominent MEP firm. She discovered her true passion in lighting design, contributing to award-winning projects that underscored the transformative power of thoughtful illumination. After more than a decade in design, she transitioned into lighting manufacturing, holding leadership roles in sales, marketing, and product development. This period gave her a unique perspective on the lifecycle of lighting products and their impact on design.
Earning her MBA in 2023 further enhanced her strategic capabilities, allowing her to lead RBLD’s operations with a focus on innovation and growth. She is a sought-after speaker at industry events, sharing insights on emerging technologies and design trends.
A dedicated advocate for the lighting community, Carla has served in leadership roles with the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) and the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD). She has received prestigious honors, including the IES Distinguished Service Award and Presidential Award, recognizing her contributions to the profession.
Carla’s return to lighting design reflects her enduring commitment to the art and science of lighting, making her a driving force in shaping the future of the industry.
Anne Kustner Haser
President
AKLD Lighting Design
Anne is passionate about lighting and how the power of light can make in the visual experience. She is President of AKLD Lighting Design and the principal designer for numerous merit and honor award projects from the IES and AIA, along with an IALD Award of Excellence and GE Edison International Lighting Design Award. She has spoken across the country presenting to the AIA, IES, IALD and various design groups, and taught university courses. Her projects have been published in a number of design publications including LD+A, Architectural Digest, Interior Design, Luxury Home Quarterly, The Wall Street Journal and Chicago Tribune.