Industry Honors Life and Career of Rick Wiedemer in Lighting Hall of Fame Induction

Rick Wiedemer of Hinkley Lighting was posthumously inducted into the 2019 Lighting Hall of Fame during the ALA Annual Conference in Phoenix, Ariz., on the evening of Sept. 17. The event was a celebration of Rick’s career and professional achievements, as well as his life and the impact he had on the many lives he touched with his thoughtfulness and exuberance for life.

“It was with great admiration that we inducted Rick into the Lighting Hall of Fame,” said Eric Jacobson, president and chief executive officer of ALA. “Rick’s passion, devotion and love for the lighting industry were unmatched. His vision and drive propelled Hinkley to become one of the finest lighting companies in the world.”

Having begun his career in 1969 in Hinkley Lighting’s factory, Rick worked his way through each manufacturing department, and along the way developed an enthusiasm for sales, marketing and product development. Throughout his career, Rick traveled extensively and made it a point to visit the vast majority of the company’s customers in their home locations. His fierce commitment to building meaningful relationships with customers as well as competitors in the industry was just one of the many reasons Rick was such a success and beloved by many. Under his leadership, Hinkley Lighting received countless awards including Lighting Manufacturer of the Year by the Dallas Market Center, the Family Business Achievement Award by Smart Business Magazine, and Top Place to Work by the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

His influence continued throughout the community with his involvement as a longstanding member of Ohio University’s Executive Advisory Board, the Dallas Market Center’s Lighting Board, and several local and hospital boards.

Rick’s enthusiasm spilled over into ALA as well. His strong leadership skills and vast industry knowledge enabled him to serve ALA in a variety of roles, including participating on the Board of Directors, Membership Campaign and Awards & Recognition committees. He also achieved a number of awards and accolades, and attained the ALA designation of Certified Lighting Consultant, the highest level of certification offered by the association. Most recently, Rick served as chair for this year’s conference, helping to plan the event and leading the Conference Committee.

“Rick was a remarkable leader for his community, Hinkley and ALA,” said Jacobson. “We feel fortunate to have enjoyed his support in many ways, including as chair of this year’s Conference where he had been looking forward to being inducted into the Hall of Fame. We were pleased to honor his memory and accomplishments throughout the conference, which culminated with Rick’s induction ceremony. Rick’s work and love for life will forever burn bright in our memories.”