The Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals (AOLP) is an international trade association representing the interests of outdoor lighting professionals. The mission of the organization is to establish standards, educate industry professionals and increase awareness of the outdoor lighting industry.

 
This year, AOLP named the Best of Show Award for 2023 Outdoor Lighting Awards to Jimmy Kidd of Tranquility Lighting Design for his project, The First Presbyterian Church. Kidd's commercial lighting project is located in Owensboro, Kentucky. The judges praised his technical and creative approach to lighting this landmark, saying that the lighting installation "enhances the overall landscape and architecture of this impressive property."
AOLP awarded its prestigious Industry Achievement Award to Nels Peterson, recognizing him as someone who has significantly contributed to the advancement of outdoor lighting. Nels has been practicing in the world of landscape and residential lighting design for 34 years. He's been acclaimed and awarded for his work locally and nationally.
Creating landscape illumination projects throughout North America, working on projects large and small for all types of clients, his trained eye and experience have him in demand from landscape architects, landscape lighting firms and design build firms all around the US. His work as a brand ambassador, industry spokesperson, influencer, and constant supporter of AOLP and the profession
are notable.
Furthermore, his mentorship, educational classes and coaching have helped many lighting designers and technicians over the years. Nels has been an active board and committee member with the AOLP for many years and helped found and create our Certified Outdoor Lighting Design Certification Program that continues to raise the bar and increase professionalism in the industry.
Nels has been appointed the National Director of Field Operations for Horsepower Brands, Blingle Premier Lighting Group, assisting franchisees across the nation, helping them build their business and providing training and instruction in all things outdoor lighting. With this new role, his employees at his business, Nordic, can now take a more active role in the operations and allow Nels to move on to this next chapter in his career.
For more on AOLP, visit www.aolponline.org.