Education Resources Archives

The Future is Now for AI

William Attardi on February 21, 2026

AI is expected to have as much impact on the business world as any of the largest technological trends, including the internet and personal computers. This e-book is a terrific primer on harnessing its powers. Channel Marketing Grouprecently collaborated with Charles Labow to publish an e-book on artificial intelligence, “The AI-Enabled Distributor.” It’s a must read for any executive in the electrical market who needs a solid overview of how distributors, manufacturers and representatives can use AI in their businesses. Along with analysis of the various AI models in use today, Labow includes contributions from several AI experts out in the field. Labow says, “The goal is not to convince you that AI is inevitable. You already know that. The goal is to help you think clearly about where it actually applies, where it does not, and what responsible leadership looks like in this moment.” The book is available for $39 through this PayPal link.

BriteSwitch: Commercial Lighting Rebate Trends for 2026

William Attardi on February 12, 2026

Electricity costs continue to climb, and commercial customers are once again taking a closer look at energy efficiency. In 2025 alone, average commercial electricity rates increased by roughly 7%, with some regions seeing increases as high as 29%. As operating costs rise, lighting rebates remain one of the most effective tools for improving project economics. So what does the commercial lighting rebate landscape actually look like in 2026, and what’s different this year? Most programs are still available this year, incentive amounts are up, and rebate structures are continuing to evolve. The following trends are shaping the commercial lighting rebate landscape in 2026.

Commercial Lighting Rebate Trends for 2026

Exclusive: Baird Research Examines Concern In Key Markets

William Attardi on February 12, 2026

In tEDmagazine’s latest exclusive, quarterly Baird Research, we asked distributors a clear question: “How concerned are you about your company’s outlook in the following markets: Residential and Commercial?” While the results varied, the level of “very concerned” remained low. The research was conducted during the first two weeks of January 2026. Exclusive: Baird Research Examines Concern In Key Markets – tEDmag

The Building Industry Stands at a Pivotal Moment

William Attardi on February 5, 2026

Rapidly changing technology, growing environmental awareness, and a host of other factors are impacting the building industry—in a time of unprecedented transformation, the built environment is at a pivotal moment. Facility managers and building operators face difficult maintenance and service challenges and decisions that point to a clear reality—buildings must evolve. As a key contributor to driving success and achieving goals, your building is central to these challenges and solutions, so understanding technological advancements and trends is crucial. Is your building ready for what’s ahead? DOWNLOAD THE REPORT AT: The Future-Ready Building: 8 Business Drivers Advancing Building Technology | Trane Commercial HVAC

Navigating the 2026 Fluorescent Lamp Bans by Tom Shearer

William Attardi on January 29, 2026

As of January 1, 2026, bans on the sale of linear fluorescent lamps went into effect in Maine, Minnesota, and Hawaii, joining Canada and six other U.S. states that have already enacted similar restrictions. For facility managers, this regulatory shift represents more than a compliance challenge—it can be a catalyst for meaningful facility upgrades that deliver substantial energy savings, reduced maintenance costs, and enhanced occupant comfort. For facilities still operating fluorescent systems, now is the time to plan and implement LED upgrades that not only meet today’s requirements but position your building to take advantage of smart, integrated technologies that keep it operating at a high level for years to come. The question isn’t whether to upgrade, but how to do so in the most strategic and cost-effective manner. Strategic Planning: four steps to assess your facility’s lighting needs at: Navigating The 2026 Fluorescent Lamp Bans

MIT Sloan Executive Education Programs

William Attardi on January 18, 2026

From clear communication to critical thinking and problem solving to adopting new technology, the essential skills of leadership require constant renewal. That’s why successful executives understand that lifelong learning isn’t just a mindset, it’s a strategic advantage. Our 90+ courses are here to help you stretch your thinking and hone your skills. Join us for one (or more) of these upcoming offerings in 2026:

Course Finder for Individuals | MIT Sloan

Earn Your Executive Certificate | Executive Education

MIT Sloan Solutions for Organizations

Executive Education Programs | MIT Sloan

Lutron Releases 2026 Luxury Residential Trend Report

William Attardi on January 16, 2026

Lutron Electronics has released its Luxury Residential 2026 Trend Report: Living with Light, providing an in-depth look at emerging trends in residential lighting, automated shades, and controls. Informed by custom surveys from The Harris Poll driven by insights from high-net-worth homeowners and residential designers and architects, as well as Lutron sales and product data, the report highlights how lighting, shading, and controls are now central to both the aesthetic and emotional experience of a home. The report strongly signals that homes are increasingly prioritizing mood, wellness, and personalization. Motorized shades and app-controlled lighting are shifting from luxury upgrades to expected design essentials, while layered, tunable light is foundational to creating spaces that feel human, flexible, and attuned to the rhythms of daily life. Key findings:

Lighting as the Heart of the Home
The Shift Toward Dynamic, Tunable Light
The Evolution of Window Treatments
Customization, Personalization, and Materials
Smart Controls Complete the Design and the Experience

Download the complete report in PDF format: Lutron 2026 Trend Report – Dropbox

NEMA’s 2025 Guide to the Electroindustry

William Attardi on December 11, 2025

NEMA’s 2025 Guide to the Electroindustry provides an in-depth analysis of the electroindustry, underscoring its vital role in the economy, grid reliability, and powering the future. The electroindustry is a powerful force. We contribute a full 1% of U.S. GDP and directly provide over 580,000 American jobs. NEMA’s world-class market insights offer a look at the electroindustry’s economic footprint on a state-by-state level, including detailed analyses of local impact and perspectives on the industry’s future. State and district-level data break down the industry impact at more local levels. Industry Impact – NEMA

Future-Ready Campuses: From Classroom Wellbeing to Climate Resilience

William Attardi on December 9, 2025

A field guide to classrooms and campuses that perform: sound control, visual comfort, resilience and compliance, rapid retrofit tactics, and products ready for education projects. From acoustics that improve comprehension to fast-track LED lighting retrofits that cut costs without disruption, today’s education projects demand solutions that elevate student outcomes and campus resilience. This cross-brand eHandbook curates our best recent coverage from Architectural Products, BUILDINGS, and interiors+sources to help architects, interior designers, and facilities professionals plan, spec, and operate smarter learning spaces across K-12 and higher education. Round out your due diligence with real-world case studies and a curated product guide spanning acoustical ceilings and lighting, writable surfaces, modular tables, power and data, security, flooring, and more—everything needed to turn design intent into measurable performance. Future-Ready Campuses: From Classroom Wellbeing to Climate Resilience | Buildings

Unlocking Smart Efficiency: Your Guide to AI-Ready Buildings

William Attardi on December 5, 2025

Discover how AI can optimize energy, comfort, and operations and how you can lead smarter, more sustainable buildings. Navigate the transition to AI-ready buildings. This whitepaper sponsored by Schneider Electyric offers insights into energy optimization, alarm management, sustainability reporting, and predictive maintenance. Gain actionable strategies, real-world case studies, and a clear roadmap to harness AI for smarter, more efficient, and future-proof building operations. Unlocking Smart Efficiency: Your Guide to AI-Ready Buildings | Buildings