Happy Spring…
(We’ve got a great thing growing!)
2026 has been a year of firsts for the Opticians Association of Ohio. For the first time in our history, the OAO rolled out the Midwest Spec Fest, opening the event to not only our members, but many others as well. Our events now welcome the entire office, from front desk and optical staff to optometrists and ophthalmologists.
So, what did the new attendees experience? They were able to attend a true trade show, with many vendors who are new to the Ohio and surrounding states market. They were able to attend the trade show, from 12:00 to 6:00, and members were able to get FREE, live, continuing education as well. Vendors and attendees alike enjoyed the Spec Fest Fashion show, were able to compete in a timed lensometer race to highlight their skills, and network during the Taste of Italy happy hour. Oh, and I haven’t even mentioned the chances to win trips to Italy and Las Vegas!
Unlike our CEU events of the past, where we featured a few frame companies, this year we are a trade show featuring accessories, frames, edging equipment, remote exam software and equipment, labs, and vendor/partners such as dry eye and lens manufacturing options.
The best news is that our first two events were not only a success, but word traveled to Vision Expo where vendor partners had heard the buzz and sought us out to join in the fun! So…we will have even MORE partners at our Toledo (Perrysburg) and Columbus events in the fall. Our attendees were happy, as well as our partners, so there is no turning back. The Midwest Spec Fest is here to stay!
If you are interested in attending the next event, click here: If you are a vendor looking to showcase your products at 4 different events, marketed to entire offices in a 5-state region, click here!
Midwest Spec-Fest isn’t just another optical event — it’s a full-on experience. It’s where education meets fashion, innovation meets personality, and the optical community shows up loud and proud.
After the incredible success of our first two Spec-Fests, the bar has officially been raised.
The Cincinnati event? Electric.
The energy, the packed sessions, the fashion show moments, the networking that turned into real collaborations — it set the tone.
The Akron event? Even bigger.
More engagement. More innovation. More people saying, “Why haven’t we always done events like this?”
Attendees walked away with:
Continue reading here!
I had the pleasure of interviewing Luke Cassidy, Trustee on the OAO Board, to share his insights, experiences, and dedication to the optical profession. In this feature, Luke offers a closer look at his role, his perspective on the industry, and his passion for serving our members.
-Melissa Sutherland
Can you tell us a little about your background and what first inspired you to pursue a career in opticianry?
"I didn’t originally plan on becoming an optician. I was studying psychology when, at 18, my life changed dramatically after a car accident that resulted in a vehicular assault charge. Even though I had the right of way and the other driver turned in front of me, I was found to be slightly over the speed limit, and the situation had long‑lasting consequences.
When I came home, I knew I needed to rebuild my life with purpose. Two weeks later, I got a job at a deli — just trying to get back on my feet. One day, the Vice President of Fisher’s Optical came in and struck up a conversation with me. Something about the way I carried myself must have stood out, because by the end of that conversation he shook my hand and offered me an apprenticeship.
That moment changed the entire direction of my life. Someone in the industry saw potential in me before I even fully saw it in myself. Once I stepped into the optical world, I realized how much I loved it — the blend of technical skill, patient care, and the ability to make an immediate difference in someone’s daily life. Opticianry didn’t just become a career; it became the foundation of the life I was rebuilding."
We’re excited about the upcoming United Opticians Association Leadership Conference, taking place June 25-27 in Chicago, IL. This three-day experience brings together leaders, innovators, and advocates from across the optical industry for education, collaboration, and inspiration.
Conference Highlights:
Day 1 – Educators, Innovators & Explorers
• Hands-on labs with leading innovators
• Field trips and tours of Europa Eyewear and MEI Systems
• Welcome reception to connect with peers nationwide
Day 2 – Advocate, Educate & Elevate
• Sessions on advocacy, leadership, and nonprofit best practices
• Contact lens-focused panels and breakout sessions
• Eye on Impact Awards Dinner with an energizing keynote
Day 3 – Power to Purpose
• Micro-learning sessions with practical takeaways
• UOA Delegate Assembly to set priorities and elect the FY27 Board
Whether you’re an established leader or an emerging voice in optical, this event offers tactical tools and meaningful connections to help you grow professionally and personally. See you there!
Carl J Powell is a name many of us recognize. A dedicated optician and former board member of the OAO, Carl helped shape the direction and strength of our passion through both leadership and commitment to excellence. While it's been some time since he was actively involved, his impact has never left, nor has the spotlight.
Carl has been recognized as one of the best opticians in the field, an honor that reflects his skill, integrity, and genuine care for patients. His practice, Primary Eye Care in Troy has also been recognized with top honors. These acknowledgements, awarded by Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose, speak not only to Carl's individual excellence, but to the standards of care and professionalism that define his entire practice. Today, we're not just recognizing his achievements, but celebrating his leadership and welcome return to the conversation.
Carl, tell us about how you became a licensed optician in Ohio.
"I started in 1978. My dad owned White House Optical in Dayton."
Our very own Secretary/Treasurer, Valerie Lambert, was featured in Invision Magazine! Discover how she’s bringing personality and connection to her practice.
Read the article here!
🎟️ Pack Your Bags — Your Ticket Could Take You Around the World! 🎟️
The Spec-Fest Raffle is next-level. Enter for your chance to win a trip for TWO to Vision Expo Las Vegas 2027 or a dream trip for TWO to MIDO in Milan, Italy 2027, with airfare and hotel INCLUDED! Buy your raffle tickets online or at Midwest Spec-Fest and turn one event into the adventure of a lifetime. Don’t just attend Spec-Fest — pack your bags and win big!Click here for a chance to win!
The OAO organization works year-round to support and protect the profession of opticianry.
From monitoring legislation that impacts licensure and scope of practice, to providing high-quality continuing education designed specifically for licensed opticians, the mission goes far beyond hosting events.
Programs like Midwest Spec-Fest and leadership initiatives are intentionally created to connect professionals, encourage growth, and strengthen the optical community.
Board elections are also an important part of this work. Leadership doesn’t just happen — it’s built by members who step forward to serve. This could be your opportunity to help shape the future of the profession and be part of the incredible work happening behind the scenes.
Strong professions don’t grow by accident. They grow because professionals choose to get involved.
