Independent Labs and the Future of Opticianry | Brandon Butler, Artisan Lab Network

What role do independent labs play in today’s optical industry, and why should opticians be paying attention? In this episode of Mission:Optician, Brandon Butler, president and CEO of Artisan Lab Network, sits down with Gwen Cooper, executive director of United Opticians Association (UOA). With more than two decades of experience across optics, lens manufacturing, and lab management, Brandon shares how the industry is evolving — from consolidation to the resurgence of independent labs — and what that means for opticians, patients, and the future of eye care. Plus, Brandon discusses his efforts to expand the optical workforce by training and hiring formerly incarcerated individuals, which creates pathways into opticianry for motivated new talent. In this episode, you will learn: The economics behind independent lab operations How industry consolidation has shaped lab options for independent practices Why the relationship between opticians and labs is more critical than ever How the Artisan Lab Network is reclaiming the art of lens manufacturing, and why that matters for patient outcomes  This episode is brought to you by the Artisan Lab Network. Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org  Shape the conversation on Mission:Optician! Tell us what topics and guests you want us to feature next at https://opticians.org/podcast