Mission:Optician

United Opticians Association
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Education
  • Updated Biweekly

Mission:Optician is the opticianry news + views podcast from the United Opticians Association (UOA). Created by and for opticians, the show brings together insights and leadership from across the profession. On Mission:Optician, we dive into the ideas, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of opticianry — exploring the trends, innovations, and strategies that strengthen our profession, elevate patient care, and advance our shared national goals.

  1. Sep 15

    The Future of Optician Training and Certification | Brian Diener, Optical Training Institute

    Does 10 years of experience automatically make you a better optician than someone with two? Not necessarily. Brian Diener, director at the Optical Training Institute (OTI), sits down with Gwen Cooper, executive director at United Opticians Association (UOA), to explore what it takes to become a confident and effective optician. Brian explains why a résumé doesn't tell the full story, how hiring assessments can reveal strengths and knowledge gaps, and why every optician's learning path is different.  The conversation takes a closer look at apprenticeship training, where requirements can vary dramatically between states. Hear what meaningful on-the-job training can look like and the specific skills employers look for when hiring opticians. Brian and Gwen also discuss certification, workforce shortages, and the push for greater consistency across opticianry — including clearer job titles and standards. In this episode, you will learn: Why years of experience don’t always reflect an optician’s true knowledge and skills What separates being supervised on the job from having a mentor who actively teaches on-the-job competencies How certification and clearer job titles can establish a standard for optician competency This episode is brought to you by Optical Training Institute: http://opticaltraining.com  Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org

    The Future of Optician Training and Certification | Brian Diener, Optical Training Institute

  2. Sep 1

    Rethinking Vision Plans and Optician Independence | Steve Alexander, Anagram

    What happens when vision plan requirements influence the way opticians provide care? Steve Alexander, vice president of industry and strategic partnerships at Anagram, returns to Mission:Optician to continue the conversation around vision plans, practice independence, and the future of opticianry. In conversation with Bob Alexander, director of education at United Opticians Association (UOA), Steve explores how vision plan structures, operational autonomy, and reimbursement models impact the decisions opticians make each day.  In this episode, you will learn: How lab choice, chargebacks, and reimbursement structures influence product decisions and profitability How practices can improve patient relationships and staff morale by reducing administrative barriers The demographic shifts in the eye care industry that could create opportunities for opticians to expand their roles This episode is brought to you by Anagram: https://www.goanagram.com/  Enjoyed this conversation? Listen to Steve’s first Mission:Optician episode where he breaks down vision benefits and reimbursements: https://missionoptician.podbean.com/e/vision-benefits-explained-steve-alexander-anagram/  Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org

    Rethinking Vision Plans and Optician Independence | Steve Alexander, Anagram

  3. Aug 18

    What It Takes to Deliver Exceptional Eyewear | Brandon Butler, Artisan Lab Network

    What separates a good pair of glasses from a great one? According to Brandon Butler, president and CEO of Artisan Lab Network, it starts long before the lenses reach the patient. In this episode, Bob Alexander, director of education at United Opticians Association (UOA), sits down with Brandon for a conversation about craftsmanship, education, and unifying opticianry. Fresh off receiving the prestigious 2026 Goodfellow Award from The Vision Council, Brandon explains why preserving the art of lens manufacturing is just as important as embracing new technologies.  He also shares how decades of experience across the optical industry shaped his approach to building an independent lab and how better-trained opticians improve patient care, reduce costly remakes, and help practices operate more efficiently. In this episode, you'll learn: Why understanding a patient's lifestyle is just as important as understanding their prescription Why finding the right role for each employee, including Brandon’s own sons, creates better business results The importance of collaboration between opticians and independent labs Brandon's vision of a more unified future for the optical industry This episode is brought to you by Artisan Lab Network: https://www.artisanlabnetwork.com/  Enjoyed this conversation? Listen to Brandon’s first Mission:Optician appearance  where he explores industry consolidation and the rise of independent labs: https://missionoptician.podbean.com/e/independent-labs-and-the-future-of-opticianry-brandon-butler-artisan-lab-network/  Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org  Shape the conversation on Mission:Optician! Tell us what topics and guests you want us to feature next at https://opticians.org/podcast

    What It Takes to Deliver Exceptional Eyewear | Brandon Butler, Artisan Lab Network

  4. Aug 4

    From Order Taker to Trusted Advisor: Elevating the Optician's Role | Michael Gatti, HOYA Vision Care

    Why are some opticians perceived as trusted advisors, while others are seen as order-takers? In this episode of Mission:Optician, Michael Gatti, Global Head of Learning and Sales Enablement at HOYA Vision Care, discusses the power of education in the optical industry in conversation with Gwen Cooper, Executive Director of the United Opticians Association (UOA). Michael shares why confident and well-trained opticians are critical to improving patient outcomes, reducing costly errors, and elevating the profession.  He also reflects on HOYA Vision Care's commitment to optician education and workforce development, including the company’s longstanding partnership with the UOA Student to Leadership program. In this episode, you will learn: Why listening to patients and simplifying your message is often more important than explaining product features Why certification and continuing education are crucial to elevating the optician profession How the UOA Student to Leadership program exposes opticians to career paths and leadership opportunities across the optical industry This episode is brought to you by HOYA Vision Care: https://www.hoyavision.com/en-us/ Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org  Shape the conversation on Mission:Optician! Tell us what topics and guests you want us to feature next at https://opticians.org/podcast

    From Order Taker to Trusted Advisor: Elevating the Optician's Role | Michael Gatti, HOYA Vision Care

  5. Jul 21

    Can Technology Expand Vision Care Access? | Tim Fern, Eyebot

    How can technology expand access to vision care, and what role do opticians play in that future? In this episode, Tim Fern, chief commercial officer of Eyebot, joins host Gwen Cooper, Executive Director of the United Opticians Association (UOA), to discuss the gaps in access to vision care, industry workforce shortages, and how technology can make glasses more accessible without replacing opticians. Tim sheds light on how Eyebot works, where it fits in a patient’s journey, and the differences between an Eyebot vision test and a comprehensive eye exam. Hear why vision care access remains a challenge in rural communities, how Eyebot incorporates feedback from opticians to shape its product development, and why opticians and optometrists remain essential to delivering quality vision care. In this episode, you will learn: How workforce shortages are affecting access to vision care and patient wait times How technology can complement — but not replace — the expertise of opticians, optometrists, ophthalmologists, and eye care professionals How Eyebot combines technology and doctor oversight to provide prescriptions to eligible patients This episode is brought to you by Eyebot: https://www.eyebot.co/ Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org  Shape the conversation on Mission:Optician! Tell us what topics and guests you want us to feature next at https://opticians.org/podcast

    Can Technology Expand Vision Care Access? | Tim Fern, Eyebot

  6. Jul 7

    The Art and Science of Specialty Opticianry | Charlie Saccarelli, Chadwick Optical

    What happens when a patient’s glasses match the prescription, but they still can’t see comfortably?  In this episode, Gwen Cooper, executive director of United Opticians Association (UOA), sits down with Charlie Saccarelli, president of Chadwick Optical, to explore specialty opticianry, low vision, and patient-centered optical care. Charlie shares how Chadwick Optical works with specialty optometrists and ophthalmologists to help patients with complex visual needs. He reflects on mentorship, collaboration across the eye care industry, and the importance of creating solutions for patients who would otherwise be left behind. Hear why empathy and curiosity are essential for opticians, how automation has changed the optical industry, and Charlie’s perspective on certification and the future of the opticianry profession. In this episode, you will learn: What specialty opticianry is and why some patients require highly customized visual solutions Why a “correct” prescription doesn’t always guarantee comfortable vision How opticians bridge the gap between prescriptions and real-world patient outcomes This episode is brought to you by Chadwick Optical: https://chadwickoptical.com/ Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org    Shape the conversation on Mission:Optician! Tell us what topics and guests you want us to feature next at https://opticians.org/podcast

    The Art and Science of Specialty Opticianry | Charlie Saccarelli, Chadwick Optical

  7. Jun 23

    What Opticians Need to Know About Myopia Management | Dr. Monica Jong, EssilorLuxottica

    What is myopia, and why are myopia rates increasing in children around the world? In this episode of Mission:Optician, host Gwen Cooper, executive director of United Opticians Association (UOA), sits down with Dr. Monica Jong, head of Medical Affairs, North America at EssilorLuxottica and a global leader in myopia management. Together, they break down the science, urgency, and real-world impact of myopia — especially in children. Dr. Jong defines myopia in simple terms and explores why myopia rates are rising, including the role of environmental factors like increased screen time and reduced time outdoors. She reflects on new treatment innovations like the Essilor® Stellest® lens and what this lens means for the future of patient care. They discuss the role of opticians in myopia management, how to communicate with parents, and why early intervention is key for children. In this episode, you will learn: What myopia is and how it affects long-term eye health Why myopia rates are rising globally and what’s driving this trend The optician’s role in educating patients and improving myopia outcomes Why comprehensive eye exams for children are more important than ever This episode is brought to you by EssilorLuxottica. --- Join us at UOA’s One Vision | One Voice | One UOA Leadership Conference taking place June 25-27 in Chicago, where opticians, educators, and industry partners will gather to explore innovation, advocacy, and the future of the profession, including a special session with the Essilor® Stellest® Lens. Secure your spot: https://www.uoaleadership.org/ Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org  Shape the conversation on Mission:Optician! Tell us what topics and guests you want us to feature next at https://opticians.org/podcast  --- The intent of this podcast is to educate eye care professionals (ECPs).  Any advice provided is general in nature and ECPs should practice within their professional scope and in accordance with local regulations.   INDICATIONS FOR USE  The Essilor® Stellest® spectacle lens is indicated for the correction of myopia with and without astigmatism and for slowing the progression of myopia in children with non-diseased eyes, who, at the initiation of treatment, are aged 6-12 years and have spherical equivalent refraction of -0.75 D to - 4.50 D with astigmatism up to 1.50 D.

    What Opticians Need to Know About Myopia Management | Dr. Monica Jong, EssilorLuxottica

  8. Jun 2

    Independent Labs and the Future of Opticianry | Brandon Butler, Artisan Lab Network

    What role do independent labs play in today’s optical industry, and why should opticians be paying attention? In this episode of Mission:Optician, Brandon Butler, president and CEO of Artisan Lab Network, sits down with Gwen Cooper, executive director of United Opticians Association (UOA). With more than two decades of experience across optics, lens manufacturing, and lab management, Brandon shares how the industry is evolving — from consolidation to the resurgence of independent labs — and what that means for opticians, patients, and the future of eye care. Plus, Brandon discusses his efforts to expand the optical workforce by training and hiring formerly incarcerated individuals, which creates pathways into opticianry for motivated new talent. In this episode, you will learn: The economics behind independent lab operations How industry consolidation has shaped lab options for independent practices Why the relationship between opticians and labs is more critical than ever How the Artisan Lab Network is reclaiming the art of lens manufacturing, and why that matters for patient outcomes  This episode is brought to you by the Artisan Lab Network. Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org  Shape the conversation on Mission:Optician! Tell us what topics and guests you want us to feature next at https://opticians.org/podcast

    Independent Labs and the Future of Opticianry | Brandon Butler, Artisan Lab Network
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Mission:Optician is the opticianry news + views podcast from the United Opticians Association (UOA). Created by and for opticians, the show brings together insights and leadership from across the profession. On Mission:Optician, we dive into the ideas, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of opticianry — exploring the trends, innovations, and strategies that strengthen our profession, elevate patient care, and advance our shared national goals.

Information

  • Creator
    United Opticians Association
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Mission:Optician

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