The American Lighting Association (ALA) has announced that Tony Wang, Chairman and Founder of WAC Group, will be inducted into the ALA Lighting Hall of Fame during the 2026 ALA Conference on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, in Tucson, Arizona.
Established in 2000, the ALA Lighting Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose careers exemplify outstanding service, leadership, and lasting contributions to both the lighting industry and the association. Wang's decades of innovation, entrepreneurship, and commitment to advancing lighting technology have helped shape the modern lighting industry while strengthening the ALA community.
Wang co-founded Wangs Alliance Corporation, doing business as WAC Lighting, with his wife, Tai Wang, in 1984. Under his leadership, the company has grown into WAC Group, a collection of lighting, controls, technology, and smart fan brands supported by integrated design, engineering, and manufacturing capabilities. Today, the organization operates facilities in New York, Georgia, Texas, and California, with dedicated manufacturing operations in Thailand and China.
Throughout his career, Wang has been recognized as a forward-thinking innovator whose vision helped accelerate the adoption of LED technology, connected lighting, intelligent controls, and energy-efficient solutions. His commitment to research, engineering, and product development has positioned WAC Group at the forefront of the industry's evolution while helping drive broader advancements across the lighting marketplace.
In addition to his business accomplishments, Wang has been a longtime supporter of the American Lighting Association. WAC Group has maintained an active membership in ALA, hosted and supported association events such as the Ceiling Fan Manual launch and Women in Lighting events at Lightovation this past January, and encouraged employees to contribute their expertise through committee service and volunteer leadership. His continued investment in the association has helped strengthen the lighting industry and foster collaboration across the profession.
Wang's impact extends beyond the lighting industry through his dedication to philanthropy and community service. He serves on the Advisory Board of the Northwell Health Cancer Institute and has supported numerous charitable initiatives throughout his career. In 2026, he was recognized as a Long Island Business News Icon Honors recipient for his professional achievements, leadership, and lasting influence.
"Tony Wang's vision and commitment to innovation have helped transform the lighting industry," said Jon Melchi, President and CEO of the American Lighting Association. "For more than four decades, he has consistently pushed our industry forward while investing in the success of ALA and its members. His leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to advancing quality lighting make him exceptionally deserving of this honor."
"I am deeply honored to be inducted into the ALA Hall of Fame," said Mr. Wang. "We are forever grateful to the ALA, as well as all of our employees, customers, and partners who helped us build WAC into what the company has become today."
Wang will be formally inducted during the ALA Lighting Hall of Fame ceremony at the 2026 ALA Annual Conference, where industry leaders from across North America will gather to celebrate his career and lasting contributions to the lighting profession.
About the American Lighting Association
The American Lighting Association (ALA) is a trade association representing the decorative lighting, ceiling fan, and controls industries. ALA serves the largest network of residential lighting manufacturers, retail showrooms, manufacturers' representatives, designers, and industry affiliates throughout the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, and Mexico. Its mission is to advance quality lighting.