CEO Sandy Woods didn’t know what she was getting into after taking over National Lighting Maintenance Services (NLMS) in early 2024. Woods had much to learn about leading a company with more than 40 years of history providing lighting solutions for commercial use but has shared she has enjoyed every step along the way.
“It’s been a brand-new experience,” she says. “I didn’t know more than most people would about lighting. But every day I come to work and learn something new. NLMS specializes in innovative lighting solutions tailored to fit your organization needs. We are committed to quality and sustainability, and we ensure that every lamp we install for our clients will also contribute positively to the environment.”
Woods was lucky enough to team up with an expert in the industry, Slater Medley, and the two of them have already taken the company to a higher level of service for their customers, employees and vendors. Medley is the company President and has been in the lighting and energy efficiency industry for more than 15 years.
His knowledge and expertise is demonstrated every day when working with our staff and our clients.
Woods and Medley now lead NLMS into a new generation, helping clients find solutions that are economically and ecologically sustainable. The most common service offered by NLMS is lighting retrofit, which entails upgrading lighting systems to be more efficient and up-to-date with today’s technology.
The team also leads projects across the country installing a variety of commercial lighting solutions that will enhance functionality, aesthetics and energy efficiency. The impact NLMS provides has been felt by many companies in different industries, including retail, hospitals, manufacturing, distribution, school systems and office complexes.
Woods so far has been spending her time sharing what she has learned about the industry with potential clients on the benefits of installing the right lighting and the effects it can have on their energy bills and the environment.
“I don’t think people realize lighting isn’t just about changing a light bulb,” Woods adds. “It’s really an energy solution and that’s what we try to focus on. If you look at your electric bill every month, the number one cost for a large commercial operation is the lights. We’re trying to educate companies that they could see those bills reduced in half by just investing in LED lights, lighting controls and sensors.”
So far the company has received positive reactions from clients when discussing the benefits of updating their lighting systems.
“People don’t stop to think that lighting systems are sophisticated networks that can dramatically impact efficiency, occupant comfort, and transform how you illuminate the space for your employees,” Woods says.
While Woods is new to the lighting industry, she brings years of entrepreneurship experience to NLMS, having previously led a staffing service for more than 30 years that she sold in 2021. This opportunity presented itself and the connection with the previous owner of NLMS really had an impact on her, and she wanted to learn more.
After human resource and recruiting work, it was a welcome change in her life that brought about challenges and an instant interest in wanting to learn more.
“Slater and I have immense potential to collaborate and bring a new surge of enthusiasm to a very innovative industry,” Woods says. “Believe it or not, it is possible to get excited about helping people light up their space.
“Our goal is not just to sell fixtures,” she adds. “It is partnering to create environments that inspire, boost morale and positively impact your bottom line. This industry is constantly evolving, and our company can help you design and adapt cutting edge solutions that will enhance your workspace.”
NLMS is a women-certified business with more than 40 years of experience. All lighting technicians are certified through NALMCO and the support staff ensures clients are always in the know.
If you’re ready to move forward and upgrade your lighting, NLMS is the team to take you through the process. NLMS is located at 2116 Plantside Dr. In Louisville. For more information, visit them online at nlmsinc.com or call 513-734-6444.