Business of Light opened its 2026 webinar series with “The Talent Trap Inside the H1B Maze,” a session focused on immigration, talent retention, and the realities facing internationally trained professionals in the lighting industry. Hosted by Barbara Horton, the webinar featured immigration attorney Elaine Kimbrell, lighting leader David Seok, and Elaine Cook, President and Co-Founder of Equity in Light.

The session combined legal guidance with personal and employer perspectives. Kimbrell explained the H1B process, including specialty occupation requirements, employer sponsorship, OPT and cap-gap considerations, lottery timing, wage requirements, and filing costs. She also highlighted major updates affecting the 2026 cycle, including the new weighted lottery system, which gives more chances to candidates offered higher wages, and the controversial $100,000 fee that may apply in some consular cases for applicants outside the U.S.

Beyond the legal framework, the panel emphasized the emotional and professional challenges international workers face. Seok spoke about the importance of H1B sponsorship to the lighting industry’s talent pipeline, noting that many graduating classes include a high percentage of international students. Cook shared candid advice from her own experience navigating multiple visas, encouraging attendees to advocate for themselves, stay organized, seek support, and build visibility through volunteering, publications, speaking opportunities, and professional organizations.