Upcoming events

    • January 01, 2026
    • December 31, 2026
    • Online
    Register

    Professional Opticians of Florida have partnered with WINK Productions to offer a new on-line program developed to review the fundamentals needed to help you prepare for the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) and the National Contact Lens Examiners (NCLE) Certification Examinations required for licensure in Florida.

    Each virtual interactive lesson consists of slides, audio, speaker notes and a quiz, allowing you to review and complete the training independently. Online testing can make sure the most important information is understood. And, interactive education is more fun and more likely to be retained.

    Your email confirmation will include information on accessing the review courses.


    POF is happy to offer an optician-friendly cancellation policy. If you need to cancel for any reason, POF will give you a 100% credit towards a future event, no explanation needed. Just send us a note confirming you cannot attend & we will credit your account after the event.


    • October 18, 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    • Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Crestview, 110 Crosson St, Crestview, FL 32536
    • 46
    Register

    EMERALD COAST CHAPTER PRESENTS

    8 HOURS OF CONTINUING EDUCATION

    October 18, 2026


    Fairfield Inn & Suites

    110 Crosson St

    Crestview, FL 32536




    *All times are in CDT*

    8:45 a.m. –9:00 a.m.  - Check In


    9:00 a.m. - 9:50 a.m. - Introduction to Contact Lens

    Anna Cox, LDO- 1 Hour Contact Lens


    10:00 a.m. - 10:50 a.m. -Keratometry for the Optician

    Wes Stuart, LDO- 1 Hour Contact Lens


    11:00 a.m. - 11:50 a.m. - HIPAA Basics for Eyecare Providers

    Anna Cox, LDO - 1 Hour Technical

    12:00 p.m. - 12:50 p.m. - Fitting the Geriatric Patient

    Ed Mitchell Jr., LDO - 1 Hour Technical

    1:00 p.m. - 1:50 p.m. - Understanding the Importance of POW Measurements

    Amer Mourad, ABOC- 1 Hour Technical


    2:00 p.m. - 2:50 p.m. - Thick or Thin, What Really Matters When It Comes to Lens Thickness

    Amer Mourad, ABOC- 1 Hour Technical


    3:00 p.m. - 4:40 p.m. - Florida Laws & Rules

    Anna Cox, LDO 2 Hours Laws & Rules



    *Light Refreshments Included*


    Member Rate - $40.00         

    Standard Rate - $40.00 + $20.00 per hour of education


    Available for purchase at the event: Tie Dye T's $30, Polo Shirts $45

                    


    *Rates increase $10 one week prior to the event-Early registration is recommended  

    *No Onsite Registrations*

    POF is happy to offer an optician-friendly cancellation policy. If you need to cancel for any reason, POF will give you a 100% credit towards a future event, no explanation needed. Just send us a note confirming you cannot attend & we will credit your account after the event.

    (CE Provider #50-1645)

    • October 28, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • Hillsborough College - Dale Mabry Campus, 4001 W Tampa Bay Blvd, Tampa, FL 33614
    • 21
    Register

    *WEST COAST CHAPTER PRESENTS

    4 HOURS OF CONTINUING EDUCATION

    October 28, 2026


    Hillsborough College-Dale Mabry Campus

    4001 Tampa Bay Blvd

    Tampa, FL 33614


    5:45 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.  - Check In 

    6:00 p.m. – 7:40 p.m.  - Refractometry for Contact Lens Fitters

    Wes Stuart, LDO  - Two (2) Hours Contact Lens

    7:40 p.m. - 9:20 p.m. - Florida Laws & Rules

    Anna Cox, LDO  - Two  (2) Hours Laws & Rules

    *Light Refreshments Provided*

    Member Rate - $35.00         

    Standard Rate - $35.00 + $20.00 per hour of education


    *Rates increase $10 one week prior to the event-Early registration is recommended  

    *No Onsite Registrations*

    POF is happy to offer an optician-friendly cancellation policy. If you need to cancel for any reason, POF will give you a 100% credit towards a future event, no explanation needed. Just send us a note confirming you cannot attend & we will credit your account after the event.

    (CE Provider #50-1645)

    • November 02, 2026
    • 7:00 PM
    • December 07, 2026
    • 9:00 PM
    • Online Webinar
    Register

    ABO Basic Certification Exam Review Webinar Series

    Professional Opticians of Florida (POF) is pleased to offer the ABO Basic Certification Exam Review Webinar Series, designed to help opticians confidently prepare for the ABO Basic Certification Exam.

    This comprehensive review series consists of six (6) live webinar sessions, each two (2) hours in length. Instruction is provided by an experienced Opticianry Program Instructor. Throughout the series, the instructor will review key exam content, explain essential concepts, and answer participant questions to ensure you are well prepared in advance of your exam.

    Webinar Schedule

    • November 2
    • November 9
    • November 16
    • November 23 
    • November 30
    • December 7

    Webinar Time: 7:00 – 9:00 PM

    ________________________________________

    Course Content Overview

    This review course covers the core areas of knowledge tested on the ABO Basic Certification Exam, including:

    I. Ophthalmic Optics

    • Terminology
    • Lens characteristics, powers, and formulas
    • Multifocal lenses
    • Lens materials
    • Prism

    II. Ocular Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology

    • Structure and function of the eye
    • Refractive errors

    III. Ophthalmic Products

    • Lenses and frames
    • Application of product knowledge
    • Verifying frame and lens parameters

    IV. Instrumentation

    • Use of lens power devices
    • Selection of ophthalmic tools, instruments, and equipment
    • Proper use and maintenance of ophthalmic tools and equipment

    V. Dispensing Procedures

    • Visual needs for lifestyle and occupational activities
    • Fitting, adjusting, measuring, and verification

    VI. Laws, Regulations, and Standards


    For more information on the

    ABO/NCLE Basic Certification Exam Review Programs

    Click Here

    ________________________________________

    POF’s Promise to You

    POF’s goal is to provide friendly, professional service while treating you with the respect you deserve as an optician. We accept all major credit cards, as well as checks submitted in advance or on-site.

    Cancellation Policy

    POF is pleased to offer an optician-friendly cancellation policy. If you need to cancel for any reason, you will receive a 100% credit toward a future POF event—no explanation required. Simply notify us in writing, and your account will be credited after the event.

    Special Accommodations

    In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), please let us know if you require special accommodations.

    Call 850-201-2622

    Pre-registration and written notice at least 7 days in advance are required.

    • November 04, 2026
    • 7:00 PM
    • December 09, 2026
    • 9:00 PM
    • Online Webinar
    Register

    NCLE Basic Certification Exam Review Webinar Series

    Professional Opticians of Florida (POF) is pleased to offer the NCLE Exam Review Webinar Series, designed to help candidates confidently prepare for the NCLE Basic Certification Examination.

    This comprehensive webinar series consists of six (2-hour) live sessions, instructed by an experienced Opticianry program instructor. Participants will receive focused instruction on exam-related material and have the opportunity to ask questions in advance of their exam.

    Webinar Dates

    • November 4
    • November 11
    • November 18
    • November 25
    • December 2
    • December 9

    Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (ET)

    This course is designed to prepare candidates for the NCLE Basic Certification Examination.

    Course Topics Include

    Domain I

    • Ocular anatomy, physiology, and pathology as it relates to contact lens wear

    Domain II

    • Refractive errors, including ametropias and optical conditions related to contact lenses

    Domain III

    • Pre-fitting techniques to evaluate corneal measurements and refractive error, including identification of specialty materials and lens designs

    Domains V & VI

    • Diagnostic fitting and dispensing of soft and rigid contact lenses
    • Aftercare, wearing schedules, and patient hygiene
    • Use of instruments, tests, and evaluation procedures

    Domain VII

    • Follow-up care and problem-solving protocols related to normal and abnormal symptoms

    Domain VIII

    • Legal aspects of contact lenses and tolerance standards used in contact lens fitting

    For more information on the NCLE/ABO Exam Review
    Click Here

    POF’s Promise to You

    POF’s goal is to provide friendly, professional service while treating you with the respect you deserve as an optician.

    • POF offers an optician-friendly cancellation policy. If you need to cancel for any reason, you will receive a 100% credit toward a future event, no explanation required. Simply notify us in writing, and your account will be credited after the event.

    Special Accommodations


    In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), please let us know if you require special accommodations. Call 850-201-2622. Pre-registration and 7 days’ advance written notice are required.

    • November 07, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
    • Catherine Schweinsberg Rood Central Library,
    • 34
    Register

     

    SPACE COAST CHAPTER PRESENTS

    4 HOURS OF CONTINUING EDUCATION

    November 7, 2026

    Catherine Schweinsberg Rood Central Library

    308 Forrest Avenue

    Cocoa, FL 32922


    9:45 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. - Check In


    10:00 a.m. - 10:50 a.m.  -  Effective Power & Position of Wear

    Tom Neff, LDO- One (1) Hour Technical


    11:00 a.m. – 11:50 a.m. Index Matching for Optical Excellence

    Tom Neff, LDO - One (1) Hour Technical


    12:00 p.m. – 12:50 p.m. Building a Recognizable Brand in the Digital Age

    John Belden - One (1) Hour Elective


    12:00 p.m. – 12:50 p.m. Enhancing Patient Care Through AI Driven Technology

    Stacie Hart-Sidwell, LDO - One (1) Hour Technical



    *Refreshments & Snacks Provided*


    Members - $35.00 education included

    Nonmembers - $35.00 + $20.00 per hour


    *Rates increase $10 one week prior to the event-Early registration is recommended  

    *No Onsite Registrations*

    POF is happy to offer an optician-friendly cancellation policy. If you need to cancel for any reason, POF will give you a 100% credit towards a future event, no explanation needed. Just send us a note confirming you cannot attend & we will credit your account after the event.

    (CE Provider #50-1645)

    • November 08, 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Deerfield Pines North-Clubhouse, 959 SE 2nd Ave, Deerfield Beach, FL 33441
    • 39
    Register


    FORT LAUDERDALE CHAPTER PRESENTS

    4 HOURS OF CONTINUING EDUCATION

    November 8, 2026


    Deerfield Pines North

    Clubhouse (Past Bldg 3)

    959 SE 2nd Ave

    Deerfield Beach, FL 33441


    Limited Registration Seats!



    11:45 a.m. –12:00 p.m.  - Check In 

    12:00 p.m. - 12:50 p.m. - Abbe Value and Refractive Index: The Ongoing Battle

    Thomas Neff,  LDO - 1 Hour-Technical

    1:00 p.m. - 1:50 p.m. - Index Matching for Optical Excellence

    Thomas Neff,  LDO - 1 Hour-Technical

    2:00 p.m. - 2:50 p.m. - Effects of Position of Wear Measurements and Why Do We Care?

    Thomas Neff,  LDO - 1 Hour Technical

    3:00 p.m. - 3:50 p.m. - Fitting and Adjusting of the Frame, But Why?

    Thomas Neff,  LDO - 1 Hour Technical


    Member Rate - $35.00         

    Standard Rate - $35.00 + $20.00 per hour of education


    *Rates increase $10 one week prior to the event-Early registration is recommended  

    *No Onsite Registrations*

    POF is happy to offer an optician-friendly cancellation policy. If you need to cancel for any reason, POF will give you a 100% credit towards a future event, no explanation needed. Just send us a note confirming you cannot attend & we will credit your account after the event.

    (CE Provider #50-1645)

    • November 15, 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • 2000 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd BB&T Building, Suite 400 West Palm Beach, FL 33409
    • 40
    Register

      

    PALM BEACH CHAPTER PRESENTS

    6 HOURS OF CONTINUING EDUCATION


    November 15, 2026


    MITTLEMAN EYE

    2000 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd, BB&T Bldg, Ste 400, West Palm Beach, FL 33409



    9:00 a.m. - 10:40 a.m.  -  Florida Laws & Rules

    Anna Cox, LDO - Two (2) Hours Laws & Rules


    11:00 a.m. - 11:50 a.m.  -  Introduction to Contact Lenses

    Anna Cox, LDO - One (1) Hour Contact Lens


    12:00 p.m. – 12:50 p.m.  -  HIPAA Basics for Eyecare Providers

    Anna Cox, LDO - One (1) Hour Elective


    1:00 p.m. – 1:50 p.m.  -  The Do's and Don'ts of Frame and Lens Material Pairing

    Stephen Apat, LDO - One (1) Hour Technical


    2:00 p.m. – 2:50 p.m.  -  Second Pair Lens Options For All Patients

    Stephen Apat, LDO - One (1) Hour Technical


    *Light Snacks, Prizes & Raffle*

    Members - $35.00 education included

     

    Nonmembers - $35.00 + $20.00 per hour



    *Rates increase $10 one week prior to the event-Early registration is recommended  

    *No Onsite Registrations*

    POF is happy to offer an optician-friendly cancellation policy. If you need to cancel for any reason, POF will give you a 100% credit towards a future event, no explanation needed. Just send us a note confirming you cannot attend & we will credit your account after the event.

    (CE Provider #50-1645)

    • November 24, 2026
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Webinar-Online
    Register

    All Florida Apprentices are required to attend an approved two-hour Apprentice/Sponsor Orientation course within one year of registering for

    their program. This webinar will fulfill your orientation course requirement and it includes the latest requirements, current deadlines, new exam updates and educational options for Apprentices.

    A limited number of spaces are available during the webinar, and they will be offered on a first-come first-served basis. Sponsors of Apprentices can participate on the space available basis, however, this webinar will NOT be available for CE credit to Florida Opticians.

    This webinar is FREE to all Future Optician Members of POF and the standard rate of only $29 for Apprentices that are not members of POF. Join POF as a Future Optician Member for only $45 a year for the many benefits, including this Webinar. 

    Join POF


    • January 28, 2027
    • 1:00 PM
    • February 01, 2027
    • 8:00 AM
    • Port of Tampa, 651 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602
    • 67
    Register

    CE's on the Seas 2027

    Join POF on a Voyage to Remember

    Sailing out of Tampa, FL to Cozumel, MX!




    Join us on Carnival Cruise Lines

    Carnival Paradise 

    *All prices are based on double occupancy. Port fees and taxes are included (gratuities not included)*

    Interior Cabin- Starting as low as $399.00

    Oceanview - Starting as low as $429.00

    Balcony & Suite - Call Travelers Advisers International for rates

    *Must book in the block to be eligible to attend education* 

    *Casino Rates are NOT Permitted for Group Bookings*

    VIFP Numbers can be added to confirmation

    Cabin Group Block Expires- October 30, 2026

    Full Cabin Payment Due by November 10, 2026

    Call your POF Travel Agent:

    Travel Advisers International

    401-427-0806


    Cruise Itinerary:


    Thursday, Jan 28 - Depart Port of Tampa, FL  - 4 hours of education

    Friday, Jan 29 - Fun Day at Sea, 6 hours of education and welcome cocktail party and optical trade show 

    Saturday, Jan 30 -Cozumel, Mexico   - 8:00 AM- 5:00 PM

    Sunday, Jan 31 - Fun Day at Sea & 6 hours of education

    Monday, Feb 1 - Arrive Port of Tampa, FL - 8:00 AM -disembark

     

    20 hours of approved Florida credit* 

    16 hours of ABO/NCLE  credit while having FUN!

    Due to the nature of this event,

    event education registration fees are non refundable

    *2 hours of Florida Laws & Rules and 2 hours of Reduction of Medical Errors will be offered as a take-to-cabin course and exam.  If you turn in your exam by the end of the cruise, you will receive your CE slip for credit before you disembark.  Those who prefer to complete those courses at your leisure will be given the option to take the courses as home study courses on pofce.org free of charge or to attend the two courses at any live POF event in the 2025 free of charge.

    • February 28, 2027
    • 9:00 AM - 2:30 PM
    • Lake Jackson Community Center, 3840 N. Monroe St., Tallahassee, FL 32303
    • 50
    Register


    TALLAHASSEE CHAPTER PRESENTS

    6 HOURS OF CONTINUING EDUCATION

    February 28, 2027


    LAKE JACKSON COMMUNITY CENTER

    3840 N. MONROE ST

    Tallahassee, FL 32303


    *Coffee & Light Refreshments Provided*


    8:50 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. - Check In


    9:00 a.m. - 10:40 a.m.  -  From First Down to Touchdown: Winning the Contact Lens Fit

    Dr Amy Ruzicka, OD - Two (2) Hours Contact Lens

    10:50 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.  -  Beyond the Goal Line: New Technology & Future Trends in Contact Lenses

    Dr Amy Ruzicka, OD - Two (2) Hours Contact Lens

    12:40 p.m. – 2:20 p.m.  -  Reduction of Medical Errors

    Anna Cox, LDO - Two (2) Medical Errors

    Members - $35.00 education included

    Nonmembers - $35.00 + $20.00 per hour


    *Rates increase $10 one week prior to the event-Early registration is recommended  

    *No Onsite Registrations*

    POF is happy to offer an optician-friendly cancellation policy. If you need to cancel for any reason, POF will give you a 100% credit towards a future event, no explanation needed. Just send us a note confirming you cannot attend & we will credit your account after the event.

    (CE Provider #50-1645)

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