Opticians Association of Ohio

05/07/2026

Just because we’re between events doesn’t mean the fun is on pause 🙌

Our Vision Expo raffle is LIVE—and you can still get in on it!

Imagine yourself at Vision Expo, connecting, learning, and exploring the latest in eyewear and eye care 👓✨

🎟️ Grab your tickets now and give yourself something exciting to look forward to!

👉 https://www.oao.org/aws/OAO/input_form/display_form_01_show?form_no=17&host=retain

04/10/2026

Even though we have a little break before our next event, the excitement doesn’t stop 👀

You can still grab your tickets for our MIDO raffle—and trust us, this is one you don’t want to miss ✨

Whether you're dreaming of experiencing the energy, fashion, and innovation of MIDO Eyewear Show in Milan 🇮🇹 or just love a good opportunity… now’s your chance.

🎟️ Don’t wait—get your raffle tickets today:
👉 https://www.oao.org/aws/OAO/input_form/display_form_01_show?form_no=17&host=retain

04/07/2026

👓 Let’s Talk Remakes.

In our practices, remakes can happen — but they’re also one of the best opportunities for professional growth.

What is the most common reason you see for remakes?
Measurement issues? Frame selection? Adaptation challenges? Lab communication?

And more importantly…

How do you prevent it?

Do you use checklists? Double measurements? Specific fitting protocols? Enhanced patient education?

💬 Share your experience in the comments.
Let’s learn from each other and continue raising the standard of excellence in our profession.

When we refine our process, we improve outcomes — and that benefits everyone. 👓✨

04/02/2026

Big things are coming for opticianry 👀
We love seeing leaders like Gwen Cooper and Bob Alexander bringing fresh energy and insight to the profession with Mission: Optician.

This is exactly the kind of conversation that helps elevate, educate, and advocate for opticians everywhere—including right here in Ohio. 💙

Be sure to give it a follow and tune in on April 7!

What happens when you pair a 2026 Eyecare Business Game Changer with a Master Optician who has seen every side of the lab? You get Mission:Optician.

Meet the hosts behind your new bi-weekly podcast:

🎙️ Gwen Cooper, MPA CFRE | The Advocate

Gwen isn’t just our Executive Director; she’s a radio veteran who spent a decade on-air before leading national healthcare advocacy. Named a 2026 Eyecare Business Game Changer, Gwen knows how to shake up the world (as she says in Episode 1) to ensure the work of the 73,000 opticians is finally understood by lawmakers and consumers alike.

🛠️ Bob Alexander, ABOM, NCLEM | The Master Optician

If there’s a certification in this industry, Bob has mastered it. From wholesale labs to global education for brands like Maui Jim and HOYA, Bob is a self-proclaimed "Optical Nerd" driven by one goal: unifying the profession through elite education. He’s spent his career in the trenches and is here to share the intel you need to lead yours.

Why this pair?

As Bob puts it in our debut: "We’re drawing a map that’s never been drawn before."

Gwen brings the strategy and the megaphone; Bob brings the technical precision and the legacy. Together, they are bridging the gap between advocacy and the dispensing desk.

Mission:Optician officially launches April 7.

👇 Who do you want to see Gwen and Bob interview? Tell us in the comments!

03/18/2026

👓✨ Let’s build each other up.

As opticians, we are the hands-on experts who turn prescriptions into precision — and great outcomes start with strong professionals supporting one another.

Whether your goal is to improve your measurement accuracy, strengthen lab communication, expand your clinical knowledge, mentor someone new, or grow as a leader in your practice — we want to hear it.

💬 Comment your professional goal for this year.
Let’s create a space where we share, support, and elevate our craft together.

Because when one optician grows, our entire profession grows. 💙

03/18/2026

We’re proud to partner with Jonathan Cate Inc. 👓✨

They’re a valued partner helping bring the latest eyewear trends and exclusive styles to our community. Want to stay up to date on fresh designs and special offers?

Follow Jonathan Cate Inc. on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/jonathan_cate_inc/?hl=en

We’re grateful for strong partnerships that help us serve you better! 💙🔥

Want to stay up to date on the latest eyewear trends and exclusive offers?

Follow us at https://www.instagram.com/jonathan_cate_inc/?hl=en on Instagram!

03/10/2026

What an incredible weekend at the Cleveland Midwest Spec-Fest! 👓✨

Thank you to everyone who attended, presented, and supported the event. From engaging continuing education to connecting with colleagues and industry partners, it was a fantastic opportunity to learn, collaborate, and celebrate the optical community.

We’re grateful to be part of such a passionate group of professionals who continue to elevate our field. We can’t wait to see everyone again in Toledo this September for the next show!

Modern Optical International
MEI
Central Lab Group
Chums
Smilen Eyewear
Eye Guy & Co.
L'Amy America

Europa Eyewear
ZEISS Vision
NuLids
Eye Cloud Pro
R& D Optical Lab


Super Optical International
Jonathan Cate Inc.
Essilor
WestGroupe

03/08/2026

We’re closing out Midwest SpecFest with one final CE! 👁️✨

Our last class of the event is “Establishing a Lid & Eyelash Hygiene Protocol” presented by John Bruening. This session dives into why lid hygiene matters, how to recognize issues, and how optical professionals can help patients maintain healthier eyes.

It’s the perfect way to wrap up an incredible weekend of learning, connection, and innovation at Midwest SpecFest. Thank you to everyone who joined us for such an amazing event! 👓🙌

03/08/2026

We’re kicking off the afternoon sessions at Midwest SpecFest with an incredible deep dive into the technology shaping modern eye care! 👁️✨

🔬 Instrumentation, Topography, Tomography, Axial Length, and More.

This session explores the powerful diagnostic tools transforming how we understand and manage vision.

03/08/2026

While our attendees are enjoying a well-deserved lunch break, we’re keeping the learning going! 🍽️👓

Next up, we’re diving into Customer Service in Opticals—because great eyewear is only part of the experience. From creating meaningful patient interactions to building lasting relationships, this session is all about the small moments that turn a visit into exceptional care.

Great service is what keeps patients coming back! 💬✨

03/08/2026

Up next, we’re diving into innovation with a presentation on the new Stellest lens! 👓✨

This session is all about how the Stellest lens is changing the game in myopia management, helping protect kids’ vision while giving them clear, comfortable sight. We’re excited for everyone to learn more about the technology behind this incredible lens and how it’s making an impact in the optical world.

A huge thank you to Essilor for sponsoring this session and supporting education in our industry! 🙌