Kate Fosberg
Kate Fosberg has been a dedicated professional in the lighting industry since 1998, bringing over two decades of expertise to her role at The Lighting Group in Seattle. With 22 years at her current company, she specializes in Quick Quotes and customer service, helping clients navigate lighting solutions with precision and care. Kate’s career path was unconventional—prior experience in food service and office roles did not prepare her for the impact this work would have, yet she found a profession that she genuinely enjoys and values. Throughout her career, Kate has focused on building strong relationships both with clients and colleagues. She emphasizes service- and customer-care-oriented approaches, valuing patience, empathy, and understanding in every interaction. She credits much of her professional success to the supportive company culture and the dedicated coworkers around her, highlighting that meaningful work thrives in a collaborative and compassionate environment. Kate’s approach to her work is grounded in practicality and joy: she believes that work should not cause emotional or physical strain and seeks roles that fit naturally between data management and client engagement. A graduate of Paul Smith’s College with an Associate of Arts and Sciences in Culinary Arts, she honed her skills on the job through hands-on learning and repetition. Today, she continues to bring her expertise, dedication, and authentic passion for her role to every project she undertakes.
• Paul Smith's College - AAS
• In her off time, she runs a Parrot Rescue with her Husband David.
What do you attribute your success to?
My success is largely due to the company I’ve worked for and the people I work alongside every day. My coworkers—their strength, support, and genuine care—are a big part of why I can do what I do. I couldn’t do it without them. It’s also incredibly important to me that the company I work for takes care of its people. You shouldn’t feel like a slave to your job; you should feel valued and supported.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received was to do what you love—pursue the work that genuinely brings you joy. Work is a part of life, but it shouldn’t feel like a burden or take a toll on your emotional or mental well‑being. We only get one life, and it shouldn’t be spent in a job that makes you sick. Too many people suffer through work they hate, enduring emotional and even physical strain. You deserve a path that supports your happiness, not one that drains it.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Your worth is every bit as strong and valid as any man's. I’ve never thought of myself as influential, so when I was selected for this, my first reaction was, “Why me? I’m not influential at all.” But the truth is, I deserve to be here. My contributions matter, and my value in this industry is equal to anyone else’s—man or woman.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges right now is the overall economy and the uncertainty in the industry—especially with the building sector, tariffs, and everything else happening around us. It’s a tough environment. I also think a lot of younger people want to move up quickly, but they haven’t had the chance to learn the fundamentals yet. The opportunities are out there, but you have to be willing to get your foot in the door, start at the entry level if that’s where you need to begin, and keep learning and showing up. If you do that, you can go far. That’s really the heart of it.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Patience matters, and so does taking the time to understand where someone else is coming from. It’s easy to be blunt and say, “That’s just how it is,” but I try to remember that the other person is simply doing their job. They might be under pressure themselves or dealing with challenges I can’t see. Approaching situations with genuine care and empathy helps me stay grounded and respond with kindness.
And beyond all of that, making space for yourself, your family, and your friends is essential. Work is important, but it shouldn’t consume your entire life.
Locations
Bebso
Auburn, WA