Anne Cooper



While many of us likely haven’t considered this question in recent years, it is something that continues to be relevant today. As we progress in life and in our careers, it is likely that we will be—or have been—presented with countless opportunities to learn, be it new skills, technologies, or ways of working. And, for many of us, it is also likely that how we learn now as an adult is quite different than how we learned as kids.

Regardless of our different learning styles, though, reviewing the pages of our March issue of Vision Monday brings a common thread into focus: each of us, in our unique and respective roles within the optical industry, carries within us an intrinsic desire to learn. Whether the format is through an online portal or video, in-person training seminar, industry conference, or a didactic lecture, there is something about learning that appeals to the innately curious in each of us, as well as the desire to be better versions of ourselves.

Lucky for us, the optical industry continues to be rife with learning opportunities, as seen in this month’s issue. In our article on learning platforms, featured on page 44, we showcase a variety of content available for employees, customers, and patients available in formats that reflect the different ways each of us accesses information and digests knowledge.

On page 30, we share coverage of Mido 2024, including the many opportunities attendees had to learn through educational sessions, meeting industry experts, and interacting with products on the exhibit floor. We also offer a preview of Vision Expo East on page 16, which promises numerous learning opportunities through an extensive course list, exhibit displays, and countless industry experts on hand.

Finally on page 8, we feature a tribute from some of the VM edit staff to Marge Axelrad, who has served as a teacher, colleague, friend, and mentor to so many. We hope their stories make you smile as they share all they have learned from her, and what they will miss.

acooper@jobson.com