Joel A. Spira, founder, chairman, and director of research of Lutron Electronics, headed the list of electroindustry leaders recently honored by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) at its annual conference.
Spira, who has dedicated his career to what he calls “the magic of lighting,” is the recipient of the 2010 Bernard H. Falk Award, which recognizes an important contribution to the industry through technology, marketing, education, and public affairs.
Spira formed Lutron Electronics in 1961 to market his invention of the first electronic solid state dimmer for incandescent lighting. It ultimately paved the way for contemporary digital lighting controls. He also invented the first electronic dimming ballast for fluorescent lamps, as well as hundreds of devices, systems, and processes for controlling electric and natural light. He is credited with 266 design patents and 226 utility patents.
In April 2010, Spira donated materials related to his inventions and Lutron’s history to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History electricity collection.
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