Joel Spira, 88, chairman and founder of Lutron Electronics, inventor of the solid-state dimmer switch, and 2010 National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) Falk Award winner, died April 8.
“Quite simply, he was a man who loved his family and work, and used that synergy to make our homes and workplaces comfortable,” said Kevin J. Cosgriff, president and CEO, NEMA. “His work in lighting controls established a new industry sector. In turn, that industry became the means to significant energy savings. NEMA is honored to have had the opportunity to work with and honor Joel as an industry leader and innovator.”