6 minute read
Guiding Lights: The Value of Mentorship with Amber Hepner
BY KELLY ROBERTS
For Amber Hepner, mentorship isn’t just an industry buzzword; it’s an extension of her own journey—one marked by curiosity, challenges, and transformative guidance. When Amber first stepped into the world of lighting from her background in architecture, she didn’t have all the answers. But she did have the benefit of mentors who believed in her potential, encouraged her questions, and celebrated her growth. Now, with over 16 years at Lam Partners, Amber carries forward this spirit of mentorship, cultivating a supportive environment where learning and collaboration are central to success.
A Path Shaped by Curiosity
Amber’s journey into lighting design began with a willingness to explore the unfamiliar. Growing up both on the East Coast and in Colorado, she was inspired by her father, a craftsman in the construction industry. Her young introduction to technical drawings and a fascination with the use of space and design led her to pursue a master's degree in architecture at Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston. However, after working in residential design for a time, Amber found herself craving more diversity in her work. “It wasn’t the original plan,” she says, “but I started to realize I wasn’t done learning.”
That realization led her to Lam Partners, a firm renowned for its emphasis on collaboration and technical excellence. It wasn’t a direct leap—Amber recalls being upfront during her interview about her limited exposure to lighting design. But what she lacked in technical know-how, she made up for with a deep understanding and interest in architectural design—and a hunger to learn. “I really came to love lighting as an integral piece of the architectural design puzzle. The way that lighting shapes the human experience in both unpredictable and beautiful ways really brought all of what I loved about design together.”
Bob had this way of creating a space where it was okay to ask questions and even make mistakes,”
Amber attributes much of her success at Lam to the strong mentorship she received during her early years there. Among her mentors was Robert Osten, one of the founding principals. His teaching style combined patience, curiosity, and a sense of empowerment. “Bob had this way of creating a space where it was okay to ask questions and even make mistakes,” Amber recalls. “He didn’t just tell me what to do—he made me think critically about why we were doing it.”
This approach, Amber says, gave her the confidence to embrace the complexities of lighting design. Whether it was determining light levels intuitively or working through project constraints, Bob’s mentorship instilled a sense of trust in her own judgment. “He made me feel that my perspective and ideas mattered,” she says. “That’s a gift I try to pass on to others.” It also fostered her belief in the importance of creating a space where learning and collaboration thrive.
Building a Collaborative Culture
As Amber grew in her career, she began to take on leadership roles in the firm. One of her proudest contributions has been the development of Lam Partners’ internship program. Over the years, Amber has worked to create an experience that balances technical training with real-world project exposure. “I want interns to feel like they’re part of the team,” she says. “It’s not about giving them busywork; it’s about helping them see how their contributions fit into the bigger picture.”
Recognizing the need for a structured approach to training, she formalized the onboarding processes for interns, which now extend to all new hires at Lam. "I want to make sure their learning experience is as immersive and supportive as it was for me," she explains. From developing detailed training materials to initiating introductions to the team, Amber has worked to create a comprehensive and inclusive framework. These introductions foster relationships that encourage open dialogue and collaboration. "It’s about cultivating a sense of belonging," she says. "When people feel valued and supported, they’re more likely to thrive."
Beyond formal programs, Amber’s influence extends to the broader culture at Lam Partners. She’s known for her ability to foster dialogue and encourage collaboration. “Good design doesn’t happen in a bubble,” she says. “It comes from bringing together diverse perspectives and challenging each other to think differently.” She often goes out of her way to check in with colleagues, especially those who are new to the firm. “Sometimes it’s as simple as asking, ‘How’s it going?’ or, ‘What’s been challenging this week?’” she says. “Those conversations can open the door to growth and learning.”
Mentorship as a Path to Diversity
Amber’s dedication to mentorship in the lighting industry extends beyond the walls of Lam Partners. She recently joined the mentorship program offered by Women in Lighting + Design (WILD) to see what other resources and ideas others may be able to offer. She’s also exploring opportunities to engage with initiatives like Light Justice, an advocacy resource dedicated to addressing inequities in lighting design for the underserved, and recently joined their leadership board as treasurer.
For Amber, mentorship is both a responsibility and a privilege. “It’s about paying forward the opportunities I was given,” she says. While Lam Partners has traditionally attracted a range of talent, Amber is keenly aware of the importance of actively seeking out a variety of voices. This has led her to participate in career fairs, and also engage with her alma mater through design charettes and teaching opportunities. "I think it’s vital to diversify the pipeline of talent," she says. "Engaging with more communities and institutions can only strengthen the industry as a whole."
Looking Ahead
"Mentorship isn’t static," Amber says. "It’s about being open to learning, even as a mentor, and finding ways to inspire and support others." Over the years, she’s stayed in touch with many of the interns and colleagues she has mentored. "I truly enjoy the chance to engage with them and provide a space for conversation as they navigate their design careers. It’s amazing to see where they go and what they accomplish,” she says.
Amber’s story is a testament to the impact of mentorship in shaping not just careers, but also the culture of an industry. Her journey, from a curious architect to a seasoned lighting designer and mentor, highlights the importance of fostering environments where learning and growth are celebrated. As she continues to guide others, Amber remains committed to the same values that defined her own path: curiosity, connection, and a passion for lighting. ■
