In December 2014, the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD) elevated Laura Thompson to Associate. Associate membership is open to individuals who devote the majority of their professional time to the design of architectural lighting. Candidates for Associate membership have completed at least three years of experience in the field of architectural lighting design.

Prior to elevation, Laura held an Educator membership in IALD. Educator membership is open to an educator in good standing of an accredited institution with students concentrated in lighting design or related fields. Laura taught lighting design from 2000 - 2014, serving as the Director for the TCU Center for Lighting Education from 2008 - 2014.

Laura continues to be actively involved in lighting education. Currently she serves as the President's Selected Director on the IALD Education Trust Board.