ARE YOU WILD?
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
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
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designing lighting