About CDL

Creative Designs in Lighting was established in 1978 by Walter Spitz. Walter gained a vast knowledge of lighting products through employment at a large lighting showroom. He then developed a “theatrical eye” by designing for the stage, including stage productions, musicals and dance. This knowledge, combined with a growing fascination in lighting, led him to study at Banff Center of Fine Arts under Laszio Funtek. Walter is an award-winning lighting designer, recognized across the country as a residential lighting expert. He is known for his ability to create warmth and intimacy through lighting and has a flair for drama and richness in detail. He has designed commercial and residential projects throughout the United States and abroad.

Aaron joined CDL in 2007 and currently serves as Chief Operating Officer. With an extensive background in electrical systems, lighting design, and product applications, he brings both technical expertise and strategic leadership to the organization. In 2024, Aaron earned his LC certification from NCQLP, reinforcing his commitment to high-quality lighting design and performance. As COO, he oversees daily operations and works closely with management to ensure projects are delivered efficiently, consistently, and in alignment with CDL’s standards from concept through final implementation.

Brendon is a seasoned lighting design professional with over two decades of experience specializing in residential lighting design and specification. His expertise includes the design, programming, and startup of advanced lighting control systems, as well as the production of comprehensive lighting plans and construction documents, a responsibility he has held since 2004. Appointed Design Department Manager in 2025, Brendon leads design strategy, standards, and execution across projects, ensuring technical excellence and consistency. He is a graduate of the High Tech Institute of Phoenix (2005) and earned his Lighting Certified (LC) credential from the NCQLP in 2024.

Mark Greenawalt earned a BS degree in Electrical Engineering from Penn State University in 1989 and began his career in design and engineering in the hospitality, educational, and commercial sectors. His credentials include Professional Engineer registrations in AZ, CA, and UT, (LC and LEED credentials earned/inactive). Greenawalt is the recipient of multiple IES Illumination Awards and is a past president and current board member of the Phoenix Section of the Illumination Engineering Society.

Tatiana is a lighting design professional with a strong foundation in interior design and over a decade of industry experience. She received her Certificate of Design from The American Institute for Interior Design in 2008 and went on to serve as an instructor in the school’s lighting division for eight years. With deep expertise in how lighting enhances and shapes high-end residential and commercial interiors, Tatiana has led and project-managed a diverse portfolio of iconic lighting installations. In 2024, she earned her Lighting Certified (LC) credential from the NCQLP, further solidifying her commitment to excellence and professional standards in lighting design.

We are currently hiring a product manager.

Jacob is a lighting specialist with over fifteen years of experience in the industry. He began his career in 2010 with cinema lighting, expanding into event lighting and ultimately architectural lighting. He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Cinema Art and Science from Columbia College Chicago, and earned his Lighting Certified (LC) designation in 2024. He serves as an advisory member on the IES BIM Committee and is a member of the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD).

Porter joined the CDL team after moving across the country where he earned his bachelor’s degree in architecture and design from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. He gained his initial experience in lighting right after graduating while working for a small lighting firm specializing in both commercial and residential projects. Eager to continue learning from his colleagues, he is focused on growing his skills and developing an individual sense of lighting design.

Doug serves as CDL’s Warehouse Manager and Service Technician. With extensive product knowledge, he works closely with the design team to test and troubleshoot new products before they are specified. He is also an essential member of the construction administration crew, consulting on site walks and responding to field service calls to diagnose and resolve lighting issues. In addition, Doug is the design team’s integral specialist for the final aim and focus of interior and exterior fixtures on signature projects, ensuring the designers lighting intentions are achieved.

We are currently hiring an administrative assistant/receptionist.

I started my career in operations and spent several years as a General Manager, where I learned how to run the day-to-day side of a business and lead teams effectively. Over time, I found myself wanting more stability and balance in my work and life, which led me into accounting. I enjoy the balance of organization and problem-solving that comes with bookkeeping, I’m big on staying organized, solving problems as they come up, and keeping things running smoothly behind the scenes. I like being in that middle space where operations and finance meet—it keeps things interesting and always moving.