Apply Now for WILD’s Mentorship Program 2026
Women in Lighting + Design (WILD) is lighting the way to a more balanced, equitable, and diverse industry with its Mentorship Program, returning in January 2026 for its second formal cohort. Applications opened on October 15.
Launched as a pilot in June 2023, the program reimagines traditional mentorship by breaking away from one-to-one models. Instead, WILD connects members across career stages in peer-to-peer group cohorts that foster shared learning, mutual support, and professional growth. After a successful first formal launch in 2024, the program is scaling up once again to meet strong industry demand.
A New Model for Mentorship
The WILD Mentorship Program is not business-as-usual. The first round brought together 13 diverse cohorts of 4 to 6 members each, blending lighting designers, manufacturers, sales agents, educators, and more. This cross-pollination created space for both emerging professionals and industry veterans to step into the dual role of mentor and mentee, forming lasting professional and personal connections.
Why It Matters
Mentorship is a proven driver of advancement and retention — yet only 37% of female professionals report having a mentor. WILD is closing that gap, providing women in lighting and their allies with a community of opportunity and support. The program now stands alongside WILD’s other national initiatives – the DEIR Committee, Lamplighter Coalition, and Parent Resource Group – all of which collectively serve 26 chapters nationwide.
According to the organization, demand for the inaugural round was overwhelming, with 80+ applications received in the open call for participation.
Participants described the program as enriching and career-shaping. “I am grateful to the women in my cohort. They were easy to talk to, understanding, and most of all inspiring with their drive to continue to learn and collaborate!” said Juliana Ruffalo, Specification Sales Agent, Denver.
“It felt incredible to both give and receive insight,” said Mary Hollenbaugh, Sales Director, Acuity Brands.
“This program gave me the community I was looking for,” said Carrie Walker, lighting designer, Atlanta.
The mentorship format’s mix of structure, flexibility, and inclusivity proved transformative for participants at every career stage.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The upcoming second cohort will continue WILD’s emphasis on collaboration, accountability, and inclusivity while expanding to new formats — such as smaller groups for students and emerging professionals, industry roundtables addressing today’s most pressing topics, and “fireside chats” getting to know leaders in the field.
Ultimately, the WILD Mentorship Program is about more than mentorship — it’s about building a stronger, more resilient industry by cultivating diverse talent and empowering the next generation of leaders.
For more information on the program and its success to date, check out the WILD Mentorship webpage or read the LD+A article by Mentorship Program Chairs Sara Schonour and Sarah Richter.
