For 14 years now, we’ve been asking readers to send us their nominations for women who deserve recognition for their influence within the optical industry, for their teaching and impact among their peers, for the way they deliver service and products to their customers and patients. And we sort through hundreds of stories from women who mentor, who innovate, who rise to the occasion, who manage as executives.

Underlying their inspiring stories are people who, to a person, are passionate about what they do, who readily thank their own mentors and supportive bosses or teams, who are grateful for opportunities.

Their stories are not unique to optical or vision care; but vision care and optical’s rich and diverse sectors provide an interesting picture of the scope of how our industry engages with itself and with the public.

Also underlying these womens’ stories are moments or realizations for each of them. Our questions to them aren’t just about “what” they do but “how” they got there, why they do it and what advice they’d give to others or what inspires them.

In our interviews, we talk to individuals who see that each step of the path they’re now on is meaningful for personal as well as professional reasons. Having that “a-ha” moment when a boss or colleague chalks up a misstep or even a project fail as a “learning experience.”

When someone is unsure if they’re really up to a new task or “ready” to take on a new role but they step up anyway. When family or significant others support a new career move. When family and personal commitments have to be balanced with job demands and sometimes do take precedence. When service to a business, a cause or a discipline reflects dedication and learning and diligence.

All of it reflects a portrait of women in the industry, a changing dimension of their roles over the years.

Join us in saluting the #WomenWhoWow.

maxelrad@jobson.com