As lighting systems transform into complex integrations of photonics, electronics, software, and design, a skills gap is widening. The industry needs a new breed of professionals: individuals who understand not just traditional photometry, but also network protocols, sensor integration, data analytics, circadian biology, and sustainable design principles. Educational institutions and industry bodies are scrambling to update curricula and certification programs. This includes training for electricians on installing networked systems, for designers on specifying human-centric lighting, and for facility managers on operating intelligent building systems. Bridging this gap is essential to ensure that the sophisticated technology being developed can be properly specified, installed, and maintained to deliver on its full promise.

