CTA Lighting Forum 2026

FREE PARKING AROUND SILVA!

Don’t get nervous about coming downtown for LIGHTING FORUM 2026! There are several convenient free parking options surrounding Silva. Please utilize one of the areas below:

OPTION #1 — SILVA PARKING LOT

FREE parking available in the Silva parking lot.

OPTION #2 — OTTAWA AVENUE STREET PARKING

• Northbound Ottawa Ave: FREE street parking
• Southbound Ottawa Ave: Metered parking

OPTION #3 — BRICKYARD PARKING LOT

FREE parking available with the event parking code.

We’ve got you covered — parking is easy, convenient and close to the event!

EVENT AGENDA

PRESENTATIONS & SPEAKERS

KEY NOTE SPEAKER BREAKFAST: Dr. Paul Isley

2026-27 WEST MICHIGAN ECONOMIC FORECAST

10:00 – 11:00am

Presentation Description: The results of the annual economic forecasts to date. How is 2026 going economically? Learn about how West Michigan is doing and where we are heading. Dr. Isely will describe what things to look for and how to tell whether things will turn or not for the West Michigan economy. Focus areas to include Automotive, Medical and Real Estate both Commercial and Residential. Some of the driving forces of the economy include interest rates and gas prices as researchers are starting to get better information.

Bio: Dr. Paul Isely is the Associate Vice President in charge of strategic budget management for all of GVSU Accademic affairs, in the Seidman College of Business at Grand Valley State University. He joined the GVSU faculty in 1995, after earning his Ph.D. in Economics from Purdue University. He also holds an M.S. in Economics from Purdue University and a dual B.S. in Physics and Economics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His research and teaching interests include firm/country level innovation, environmental economics, and regional forecasting.

Education: PH.D., Economics, Purdue University. (1995).,M.S., Economics, Purdue University. (1993)., B.S., Economics/Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison. (1991)



Teaching Areas: Macroeconomics, Environmental Economics, Technology Development

Mike Hopkins

Cooper Lighting, National Sales Director for Controls

2021 Michigan Commercial Energy Code – What’s New for Lighting Controls?

Presentation Description: With the recently adopted Michigan Commercial Energy Code, an in-depth review of the requirements of the revised code will provide an opportunity for the design community to stay abreast of the latest requirements that have a direct impact on their customers, their projects, and their budgets. With this new iteration, designers will benefit from a comprehensive review of the requirements and implications the code has for design choices. Practical strategies and methods to meet each of the code requirements and the role that network lighting controls plays in this evolving commercial landscape will also be reviewed.

Bio: Mike Hopkins is the National Sales Director for Controls at Cooper, where he leads the company’s sales team across the U.S. and Canada. With 14 years of experience at Cooper, Mike brings deep industry knowledge, strong customer relationships, and a proven track record of sales leadership. In his role, he works closely with customers, partners, and his team to drive growth and deliver innovative controls solutions across the North American market.

Rich Dale

Chauvet, Regional Sales Manager

Mastering the Stage: The Art & Science of Theatrical Lighting Power & Controls

Presentation Description: Light in the hands of a lighting designer is like a brush in the hands of an artist—it can make or break a show. In this course, we’ll explore the controllable properties of light, the various lighting fixture types and configurations commonly used in a stage setting, and the power and control distribution methods that underpin an effective lighting design. We’ll also review industry standards for low- and medium-voltage control methods, the evolution of related data systems, and the changes it has wrought in the industry.

Upon completion of this course, the Learner should be able to:

• Discuss the controllable properties of light and quality parameters that define its behavior and perception.
• Articulate the main objectives of lighting design, the different types of light fixtures and lighting configurations, and their applications on stage.
• Recognize key metrics and terminology used in the lighting industry and their significance in selecting lighting fixtures.
• Describe power and control distribution methods and the evolution of data systems supporting them.

Bio: Rich Dale is a seasoned lighting professional with more than 33 years of experience spanning theme parks, theatrical productions, live concerts, architectural lighting, and manufacturing. He brings a comprehensive understanding of both the creative and technical dimensions of lighting design, execution, and system integration.

Over the course of his career, Rich has contributed to a wide range of high-profile entertainment environments, including theme park attractions, cruise line productions, and live performance venues. His experience also extends to collaboration with leading lighting manufacturers, providing him with unique insight into product innovation, technology development, and large-scale implementation.

Shelli Sedlak

Cooper Lighting, Director of Architectural Brands

Invisible Rainbow

Presentation Description: A lighting professional’s everyday work involves an invisible rainbow, revealing colors with every design. Some designers apply the rainbow with great deliberation and intention, while others get their results by accident. There are tools at our disposal which allow us to articulate specific colors and hues. 



Beginning with a science refresher about reflected vs. absorbed colors, we will move quickly into CIE Chromaticity charts and Spectral Power Distribution curves. The shape of your rainbow creates the color of your world. Understanding spectral power distribution is the foundation for a better grasp of CCT, CRI, TM-30 and all things light and color.

Bio: Shelli is a passionate lighting professional with over 30 years of industry experience. She is currently a Specification Regional Sales Manager for Cooper Lighting Solutions.

As an avid volunteer in the industry, Shelli is engaged in various capacities with numerous trade organizations, such as the IES. In 2023, she was honored with the IES Distinguished Service Award. She holds an MBA from Ohio University and BS Electrical Engineering degree from the University of Southern California (USC).

WORKSHOPS

Cooper Controls WaveLinx System Communication Training



As part of Lighting Forum 2026, we're excited to offer formal Cooper Controls WaveLinx System Commissioning Training in a dedicated breakout room.

This training session provides a comprehensive look into the WaveLinx Connected Lighting System—a smart, scalable solution designed for indoor, outdoor, and industrial applications.

EVENT SPONSORS