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2 PAUL WELTY DESIGNS SHERWOOD, OR When Paul Welty was working as the office manager for JSI Landscapes in 2005, little did he know that he was shortly on his way to discovering his passion for lighting. When JSI's owner asked him to take on the role of company lighting expert, it was a moment that would illuminate the path of his future career. Immersing himself in the craft and community of lighting design, Paul found his true calling. He later founded Innovative Nightscapes in 2006, launching what would become a distinguished career in outdoor lighting. A year later, Paul joined the Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals (AOLP), where he became an active and influential member. He served on several committees and enrolled in the inaugural Certified Outdoor Lighting Designer (COLD) program, later earning both his COLD and Certified Low Voltage Lighting Technician (CLVLT) certifications. His leadership within the organization grew as he chaired the Membership Committee in 2008, joined the Board of Directors in 2010, and served in both roles until 2015. Paul continues to contribute to the lighting community as a dedicated AOLP member, still serving on the membership committee. Paul's commitment to education and mentorship also extends through his long-standing relationship with the International Landscape Lighting Institute (ILLI). After completing illi's Intensive Course in 2008, he returned as a mentor — and was honored to serve as lead mentor in Ridgewood, New Jersey; Tokamachi, Japan; Norman, Oklahoma; and Houston, Texas. In 2018, Paul sold Innovative Nightscapes to Blessing Landscapes of Portland, Oregon, where he continued to work for another five years before retiring. Today, he enjoys a well-earned retirement, balancing occasional consulting work with the simple pleasures of a full and meaningful life.

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