At LightShow West in October, four powerhouse lighting designers joined me for a panel discussion on some of the issues of gender bias, discrimination and salary inequity that percolate under today's sexual harassment headlines. Lighting designers Eileen Thomas, Heather Libonati and Ramona Pratt along with specification sales rep Lauren Dandridge Gaines described a male-dominated workplace where discrimination remains an obstacle and only a third of IALD Fellows identify as women. But what shines through in the edited transcript below are constructive strategies to speak up; ask for what you want and need. Seek out a workplace where women are valued and professional development is encouraged. Question whether an independent consultancy is right for you.
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