Olivia Bartlett

Functions as a College/University

Retails eye glasses through an online

The United Opticians Association (UOA), formed in 2024 through the merger of the Opticians Association of America and the National Federation of Opticianry Schools, is the sole national organization representing approximately 73,000 opticians and 17 accredited college programs. The non-profit company is based in Lakeland. The organization promotes formal education, certification, and coordinated advocacy to strengthen professional standards, patient care, and career advancement. UOA provides resources such as an interactive map of state certification and licensure requirements, educational materials for exam preparation, and career pathway tools for students and educators. It supports accredited degree programs that combine academic and clinical training and advocates for national certification to demonstrate expertise and adapt to changes in optical science and technology. The association prohibits discrimination and encourages member engagement through newsletters, social media, and leadership events, supporting opticians as healthcare professionals who collaborate with optometrists and ophthalmologists.