Announcing Robert Bell's Retirement

After many years of dedication and heart, Robert Bell, our Consulting Director for Pathway Connectivity, is retiring at the end of January 2026. While it’s bittersweet to say goodbye, we’re truly happy for him as he begins this well-deserved next chapter.

Robert has been a passionate advocate for Pathway Connectivity - our products, our people, our dealers, and the role we play in the industry. His pride in Pathway, combined with his knowledge and steady support, has left a lasting impact on both our team and our customers.

As we congratulate Robert, we’d love to gather a few words from customers and friends to share with him as a meaningful send-off. If you’d like to contribute, please take a few moments to share a memory, words of congratulations, or well wishes using the link below.

Celebrating Robert's Career

 
A Career of Innovation and Influence

Throughout his 40-year career, Robert has been a trusted presence in the live entertainment industry. He began with touring bands and later worked for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation in Toronto, where he pioneered “Pre-Viz” technology. In 1994, he co-founded CAST Lighting to bring WYSIWYG to the market.

After working with some of the largest bands in rock ’n’ roll and major musicals on Broadway and in the West End, Robert transitioned into product development, first with Entertainment Technology, then through a series of mergers and acquisitions with Genlyte, Strand Lighting, Vari-Lite, Horizon Control, and ultimately Acuity Brands, which later acquired Pathway Connectivity.

A Legacy of Leadership and Collaboration

For 25 years, Robert has been a member of ESTA’s Control Protocols Working Group - the team behind ratified DMX512, RDM, and sACN. Among his many products, patents, and articles, one of his most significant contributions was his 2005 white paper, The Abstract Control Model, an evolutionary way of thinking about lighting control. This philosophy was integrated into the Marquee, Light Palette, and Cognito consoles and has since been adopted by many others across the industry.

Thank you, Robert, for your passion and commitment; we wish you happiness and well deserved relaxation in your retirement.

If you have any questions, please reach out to Daniel Weiss, Director of Product Management for Pathway at Daniel.Weiss@acuitybrands.com