Nate Mullen

“AKA The Illuminator”

Nate's journey in the landscape lighting industry began at age 16, when he founded his first company, Phase 1 Electric, as an electrical contractor. His entrepreneurial spirit fueled the rapid growth of the company to nearly 100 electricians. Over the years, Nate expanded into several ventures, including Phase 1 Laundry, which managed laundry facilities in 12 apartment complexes, and Southern California Cable, which provided cable TV service to over 2,600 units.

In 1990, Nate founded Illumination Lighting, marking the beginning of a series of career milestones:

• January 1990 — November 1995: Illumination Lighting
• November 1995 — January 2011: Unique Lighting Systems (later sold to Toro)
• January 2011 — July 2017: Contract work for Toro
• July 2017 — Present: Lifetime Lighting Systems

Nate is known for his innovative, hands-on approach, often pushing the boundaries of conventional engineering in the lighting industry. Dubbed “The Illuminator,” he has earned a reputation for being bold and opinionated, admired by thousands of professionals he’s trained, and even respected by competitors. With over 35 years of full-time experience in lighting and part-time work as an electrical contractor, Nate stands as a leader in his field.

Accomplishments:

• 2020 Industry Lifetime Achievement Award
• 100,000 fixtures installed/designed
• Founder of Unique Lighting Systems
• Founder of Lifetime Lighting Systems
• Founder of L.I.T.E.
• Founder of IAALL
• Inventor of the Multi-Tap Transformer
• Inventor of the Hub Method of Wiring
• Holder of nearly 50 patents
• Creator of Nate Mullen Visual Concepts
• Avid off-roader and former owner of Off-Road Warehouse
• Author of:
  • The Landscape Lighting Bible
  • The Landscape Lighting Resource Manual
  • Trade Secrets of Landscape Lighting
  • The Art and Science of Landscape Lighting

Captain Matt

Sales

With a phenomenal 15-year career as a certified Level 11 Lighting Designer, Captain Matt is the dynamic force behind Barefoot Lighting and The Christmas Guys. Known for his innovation and style, Captain Matt is a sought-after mentor and coach, helping lighting companies across the country elevate their performance.

Nicknamed “The Captain” for his leadership and Tommy Bahama-like personality, Matt has a long-standing passion for lighting, which started in his childhood as he decorated for his neighbors. His dedication to his team is unmatched, always being the first to arrive and the last to leave, guiding his crew with unwavering support.

Who is Captain Matt?

• Founder of The Christmas Guys (2009)
• Founder of Barefoot Lighting (2020)
• Founder of Captain Matt Outdoors (2023)
• Known for bringing light into the darkness and revealing beauty within.

Accreditations:

• Level 11 Certified by the IAALL
• Certified Visual Artist by the IAALL
• Board Member of the IAALL
• Awarded Lighting Millionaire Club member
• Co-Founder of Lighting Trade School
• Voted Best in Outdoor Lighting, 2022 & 2023 (New York's Capital Region)

Shane Duffy

“The Glo Daddy”

Shane Duffy, also known as “The Glo Bro” and “Glo Show Shane,” is a born entrepreneur with a passion for lighting. Over the past two decades, Shane has started, bought, and sold multiple businesses. Entering the home service industry at age 31, he founded Glass Geeks in 2015, Glo Geeks San Antonio in 2019, and Glo Geeks (nationwide) in 2023.

Shane is also an avid investor in crypto, stocks, and real estate (Charmed Leasing LLC).

Accreditations:

• Level 11 Certified by the IAALL
• Certified Visual Artist by the IAALL
• Board Member of the IAALL
• Co-Founder of Lighting Trade School
• Voted Best in Outdoor Lighting (by his wife)