An Industry Perspective on Opticianry | Scott Harris Shapiro, Europa Eyewear

In this episode, Scott Harris Shapiro, executive director industry relations for Europa Eyewear, joins host Gwen Cooper, executive director of United Opticians Association, for a candid and wide-ranging conversation on advocacy, education, and the future of opticianry. 

Scott shares why government relations and policy are top priorities and makes the case for helping more opticians recognize the true value and impact of their profession.

Gwen and Scott explore the impact of certification, especially from the consumer’s perspective, and discuss how better-trained opticians can reduce returns, improve patient outcomes, and drive revenue for optical practices. 

Plus, Scott reflects on what it was like to grow up in a family business and how he aims to maintain those people-first values as the company grows.

In this episode, you will learn: 

• Why advocacy and legislation are essential to advancing opticianry
• What the data reveals about consumer expectations — and how opticians can respond
• Why stronger collaboration among opticians, optometrists, and industry partners benefits everyone

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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. 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