Shaping the Future of Eye Care: New Career Guide Aims to Spark Student Interest in Optometry

Shaping the Future of Eye Care: New Career Guide Aims to Spark Student Interest in Optometry

Latinos en Optometry and Transitions Optical Continue Their Commitment to Inspiring the Next Generation of Optometrists

Latinos en Optometry, in partnership with Transitions Optical, is proud to announce the release of Eyes on the Future: Exploring Career Paths in Optometry—a new guidebook designed to ignite interest in optometry and encourage the next generation of students to pursue rewarding careers in the field.

The guidebook offers a comprehensive look at 11 areas of specialization within the field, providing students and aspiring optometrists with essential information about each path. It outlines educational and clinical training requirements, highlights key professional associations, and includes select resources for deeper exploration. Most notably, the guide features firsthand insights from practicing optometrists who share what drew them to their specific specialties.

"Optometry has evolved into a vibrant profession with a wide array of opportunities for aspiring optometrists," says Howard Purcell, OD, President and CEO of the New England College of Optometry and co‑founder/Board Member of Latinos en Optometry. "Core areas like contact lenses, pediatrics and low‑vision care continue to be essential, while growing fields—oculomics, aesthetics, myopia management, dry eye management, neuro‑optometry, sports vision, and beyond—are opening new horizons through cutting‑edge technologies and innovative treatments. This dynamic landscape makes now an exciting time for students to explore the full spectrum of possibilities the profession has to offer."  

Eyes on the Future: Exploring Career Paths in Optometry is the latest initiative in a growing collaboration between Latinos en Optometry and Transitions Optical aimed at increasing awareness of optometric careers among students—particularly those in underserved communities.

In 2023, the two organizations introduced Road to Optometry, a free webinar series featuring Latinos en Optometry Board members who shared their personal journeys and offered guidance to support and inspire students considering a career in optometry.

In 2024, they conducted the Career Considerations in Optometry survey, gathering insights from 325 practicing optometrists to better understand the profession’s appeal, demands, and how it aligns with students’ personal interests, skills, and lifestyle goals. Building on these efforts, the organizations introduced Eying the Future - a free, in-school educational program designed to engage middle and high school students, particularly in Latino communities, and spark interest in the field of optometry.

“The future of optometry is bright,” adds Arlene Barringer, Sr. Manager Communications & Analytics, Transitions Optical. “With an aging U.S. population, rising rates of eye conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma, and a global myopia epidemic, the demand for eye care continues to grow. At the same time, the field is evolving beyond traditional practice settings, with opportunities expanding in corporate, academic, research, and public health roles. Transitions Optical is committed to helping inspire and prepare the next generation of optometrists—especially those from underrepresented communities—to explore these exciting and meaningful career paths.”

Eyes on the Future: Exploring Career Paths in Optometry is available as a free digital download at https://latinosenoptometry.org/students/eyes-on-the-future-exploring-career-paths-in-optometry/ and www.TransitionsPRO.com/multicultural