Her Story
About Lisa
Lisa Howard, ABOC, CPO, is a highly experienced and dedicated licensed optician currently serving in private practice at Midwest Eye Care, P.C. She is recognized for her professionalism, clinical knowledge, and patient-focused approach to eyewear and vision care. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to delivering high-quality optical services while helping patients select eyewear solutions that enhance both vision and lifestyle.
Lisa began her career in the eye care field as a nighttime receptionist for a private optometry practice, where she worked for approximately two to four years. In this foundational role, she gained early exposure to the clinical and operational aspects of optometric care, gradually expanding her responsibilities and developing a strong understanding of patient service, office workflow, and the optical industry. She later broadened her experience in retail at Walmart before advancing into a more specialized role at LensCrafters Optique.
At LensCrafters, Lisa spent a decade building advanced expertise in opticianry, including frame styling, interpretation of optical prescriptions, and patient education on lens and eyewear options. She later returned to LensCrafters for an additional four years, further strengthening her leadership skills and technical proficiency. Over time, she developed a comprehensive skill set that bridges clinical care, retail expertise, and operational management.
In her current role at Midwest Eye Care, P.C., Lisa has served for nearly 20 years, playing a key role in both patient care and practice operations. Her responsibilities include personalized frame and lifestyle styling, managing patient flow, coordinating appointments, tracking order status, and assisting with frame selection and purchasing. She is known for her ability to combine technical knowledge with a strong sense of aesthetics and patient needs, ensuring each individual receives tailored, high-quality care.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Lisa
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to keeping God first in all that I do, which has guided my decisions, strengthened my resilience, and kept me grounded throughout my career. I am also deeply grateful for the unwavering support of my parents, my husband, and my family, whose encouragement has played a vital role in my personal and professional growth. In addition, working alongside a wonderful doctor and supportive co-workers has provided me with a positive and collaborative environment where I have been able to learn, grow, and thrive in my field.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to never let anyone dim my light and to remain confident in my abilities, values, and professional standards. I have also learned the importance of consistently projecting high standards in my work and leadership, while encouraging and supporting others to rise to that level rather than compromising my own. This approach has shaped the way I carry myself professionally, helping me maintain integrity, inspire growth in others, and contribute positively to my workplace.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to be committed to continuous learning and to take every opportunity to expand your knowledge and skills. Read widely, stay informed on industry developments, and actively seek out training that strengthens both your technical expertise and professional confidence. Just as importantly, lead with compassion and never lose sight of the human side of healthcare—take time to truly listen to your patients, understand their needs, and treat them with empathy and respect. Success in this field comes from combining strong clinical knowledge with genuine care and a commitment to lifelong growth.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges and opportunities in my field right now center around inspiring and recruiting quality opticians who are truly passionate about patient care. One of the most important opportunities is sparking a genuine sense of joy in helping people of all ages—from newborns receiving their first eye exams to older adults maintaining their independence and quality of life through vision care. As the industry continues to evolve, there is a strong need for professionals who not only bring technical skill, but also empathy, patience, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Encouraging that mindset is essential to strengthening the future of opticianry and ensuring high-quality care across generations.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important values in my work and personal life are family, compassion, and treating others with the same care and respect I would want for my own family. I find deep meaning in helping people see better, as it not only improves their vision but also enhances their quality of life, which brings me genuine joy and fulfillment. I also value fully dedicating myself to the work I love, staying engaged, passionate, and present in everything I do, while maintaining a strong sense of purpose and gratitude in both my personal and professional life.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.