Mike McCarthy

Mike is a visionary, people-centered leader whose tenure at Solid Light reflects the company’s evolution, growth, and commitment to creative excellence. Since joining the firm in 2014, he has played an integral role in shaping its integrated design-build approach, strengthening its operations, and positioning the company for long-term impact.

From 2021-2026, Mike served as President, guiding Solid Light’s strategic direction, financial stewardship, and organizational growth. In this role, he has overseen company-wide operations, strengthened internal systems, supported team development, and cultivated enduring client and partner relationships. As Chief Executive Officer, Mike builds on this momentum to lead Solid Light’s vision for sustainable growth, innovation, and continued creative leadership.

Mike’s leadership is grounded in a career that bridges art, craft, and operations. Early in his tenure at Solid Light, he served as Fabrication Manager, partnering with founder Cynthia to bring fabrication in-house alongside design — a defining move that established a powerful differentiator for the firm. This integration enhanced creative control, quality, schedule certainty, and cost management, laying the foundation for Solid Light’s fully integrated model. He later served as Chief Operating Officer, expanding his oversight of operations, project delivery, and organizational structure.

Prior to Solid Light, Mike owned and operated Trinity Designs, working as an artist and builder specializing in fine furniture and cabinetry. A lifelong artist and accomplished sculptor, he continues to practice his craft today — a discipline that fuels his attention to detail and appreciation for process. Earlier in his career, Mike served as Downtown Branch Executive Director for the YMCA of Greater Louisville, where he worked with boards of directors and nonprofit finances, experience that continues to inform his values-driven, fiscally responsible leadership.