Advance your lighting expertise with NXT Level Training
In commercial lighting, knowing the basics of LED retrofits and standard fixture replacements is no longer enough. To stand out against competitors, it means understanding integrated technologies like luminaire-level lighting controls (LLLCs), applying best practices to meet customer demands, and deliver energy savings.
NXT Level Training is a free, comprehensive online training program designed to help individuals and teams design, sell, and install commercial lighting projects including retrofits, major renovations, and new construction.
This free, self-paced online training is designed for busy professionals and can be completed on your schedule. Plus, earn professional credits or hours along the way.
Promotional Incentive
The LLLC Initiative is offering a limited time incentive for qualified lighting practitioners and facility management staff who are involved in the design, installation or recommendation of lighting systems in commercial facilities in the state of Minnesota. The first 50 qualified individuals who enroll in and complete NXT Level 1 lighting training withing 45 days will receive a $100 prepaid gift card. Additionally, participants can also earn continuing education credits upon completion of the course. This incentive is available for new enrollments through June 12, 2026. Some restrictions apply, so please review the FAQs.
Lighting contractors, electrical contractors, lighting consultants, facility managers, and lighting professionals such as engineers, distributor staff, and manufacturer representatives that are involved with the design, installation or recommendation for lighting systems in commercial facilities in the state of Minnesota.
No. Organizations outside Minnesota may enroll if they regularly serve commercial customers in Minnesota.
No. Organizations may register as many participants as they wish, but only the first 50 qualified individuals to complete the course and evaluation form will receive the incentive.
Yes. Registration eligibility is from March 1, 2026 – June 5, 2026.
Each enrollee has 45 days from their enrollment date to finish NXT Level 1.
After training is complete, enrollee must complete the evaluation form provided at the end of NXT Level 1.
Earn professional credits or hours
NXT Level Training is eligible for self-reported continuing education credits for Certified Energy Managers, Professional Engineers, and NCQLP Lighting Certified professionals. State reported CEU hours are also available for Electrical Contractors. The table below details the number of eligible hours and credits and a link for more information.
| Profession | NXT Level 1 | NXT Level 2 | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical Contractors | 8 CEU hours | 8 CEU hours | dli.mn.gov |
| CEM (AEE Credits) | 1.6 credits* | 1.6 credits* | aeecenter.org |
| Professional Engineers | 8 PDH hours* | 8 PDH hours* | mn.gove/aelslagid |
| LC Designation (NCQLP) | 8 LEUs* | 8 LEUs* | ncqlp.org |
| *self-reported | |||
Get Trained On:
Selling
Communicate the full value of advanced lighting, including LLLCs. Demonstrate ROI to customers, backed by utility incentives and long-term savings.
Design
Stay up to date with the latest lighting technologies and design strategies, with a focus on integrating lighting controls all your lighting applications.
Install
Learn about current lighting controls and apply the best practices to deliver reliable installations.
Two Levels of On-Demand Learning
NXT Level 1
Ideal for those new to the industry or those looking to round out their knowledge, NXT Level 1 offers a complete introduction to lighting fundamentals—from technology to utility programs to project planning.
Delivered as seven self-paced, online modules (about one hour each), the course builds a foundational understanding of commercial lighting. Experienced professionals may qualify to skip directly to NXT Level 1 exam or directly to Level 2.
NXT Level 2
NXT Level 2 builds on the initial fundamental training and dives even deeper into advanced retrofit strategies, emphasizing lighting control strategies and applications.
The training starts with a six-hour interactive workshop covering:
- Key factors evaluating lighting system performance
- In-depth LED technology and applications
- Currenting lighting control technologies and their practical applications
What others are saying
You have to stay current. My objective is to always be a trusted resource for my customers. I need to know more about product and technology options than they do to help them make good choices that they otherwise wouldn’t have access to.
NXT Level 2 training very clearly demonstrates how to properly perform a lighting energy audit. The training places an emphasis on providing clarity to the customer, which should always be the primary goal.
Why does this matter?
The Minnesota lighting industry is moving towards higher efficiency standards and LLLCs are emerging as a key technology. NXT Level Training, supported by the LLLC Initiative, is helping prepare the market to meet the shift. This training is designed to empower lighting professionals with knowledge to lead the change, deliver high-quality projects, and meet customer goals.