Complete Story
11/13/2026
From Student to Leader: Your Opportunity Starts Here!
From Student to Leader: Your Opportunity Starts Here!
Attending the United Opticians Association (UOA) Leadership Conference has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career in opticianry. As a newly licensed optician, I was fortunate enough to receive the UOA/HOYA Student to Leadership Grant, which covered the expenses associated with attending the conference, including registration, accommodations, and travel. Having now attended two Leadership Conferences, I can confidently say that this is an opportunity I would highly recommend to any student, apprentice, or newly licensed optician looking to grow within our profession.
One of my favorite parts of the conference is the opportunity to learn from and connect with people from all areas of the optical industry. Between the presentations, breakout sessions, industry tours, and networking events, there is so much valuable knowledge to take away. However, what has stuck with me most is the incredible sense of community. You're surrounded by people who genuinely want to see you succeed, including some of the biggest names in opticianry, who are more than happy to share their experiences and advice. This past year, I was also honored to receive the Student to Leadership Award, something I never expected and am incredibly grateful for. Experiences like these have only strengthened my passion for opticianry and my desire to become more involved in the profession.
If you're a student, apprentice, or newly licensed optician, I strongly encourage you to apply for the 2027 Student to Leadership Grant! This year's UOA Leadership Conference will take place June 2–5 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and the grant offers an incredible opportunity to attend with financial assistance. Whether you're looking to expand your knowledge, make connections, or simply discover what opportunities exist beyond your everyday work, this conference has something to offer. You never know who you'll meet or how one experience might influence your future. Applications are due February 1, 2027, so don't miss your chance to get involved. I hope to see some new faces there!
