Dispensing Opticians Training Program
Become a Licensed Optician!
February 3, 2026 - May 13, 2026 (Hybrid Program)
Tuesdays & Thursdays 6-8:45pm
$99 Registration
The Optical Industry is an ever growing industry that has a need for essential workers who are passionate about helping others by rewarding them with the gift of sight, comfort, and fashion. In the San Francisco Bay Area, the number of Opticians, Dispensing is expected to grow faster than average growth rate for all occupations. Jobs for Opticians, Dispensing are expected to increase by 13.7 percent, or 70 jobs between 2016 and 2026.(Via CA.gov Labor Market Info)
The Dispensing Opticians Training Program at Cañada College
Cañada College Continuing Education and San Mateo Adult & Career Education (San Mateo Adult School) have partnered to offer the Dispensing Opticians Training Program, taught by licensed instructor Lynnette Garcia, and co taught by Jeramie Tolentino. The Dispensing Opticians Training Program provides students the foundational work to not only begin a career in optical, but also to acquire ABO board certification, leading to better paying jobs and more opportunity for career advancement in the optical industry. Students will sign up for the ABO exam before completing this course.
In this class students will learn...
- Hands on experience with ophthalmic Instruments
- The anatomy of the eye
- Science behind glass lenses
- Learn to fit frames and write prescriptions
- HIPPA Laws and front desk practces
- Diseases pertaining to the eye
- How to apply for and take the ABO exam
- ...and more!
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Student Pathway
Possible Jobs after Completing Certificate
Optical Supervisor
Salary: $45,000 -$47,000
Works directly with customers to help meet all of their eyewear needs. Takes and record
measurements, adjust and fit eyewear, and execute these details with flawless accuracy.
Check that finished eyewear meets optical standards, as well as customer requirements
and requests. Use your expertise to explain prescription terminology and product offerings
to customers
Licensed Dispensing Optician
Salary: $46,000 -$50,000
Also known as a Dispensing Optician, an Optician helps customers with fitting glasses or contact lenses, after obtaining prescriptions from Optometrists or Ophthalmologists. Responsible for preparing work orders for the Optical Technicians to use to manufacture the lenses. Uses specialized equipment, such as calipers, lensometers, and lens gauges.
Licensed Optician Store Manager
Salary: $45,000 - $48,000
Manages a team of Opticians by giving and receiving feedback, holding ongoing development
conversations, and leading by example on the floor. Report to the Store Leader, working
together to anticipate staffing needs and oversee Optician Apprentice Program participants.
Support general store systems, inventory databases, and business operations
About the Instructor
Lynnette Garcia is an American Board Certified Optician with over 25 years of experience in the Optical (eye care) field. She has managed and worked in optical boutiques, private practices, and retail corporate settings such as Oakley Sport Performance where she contributed as a consultant and lead optician aiding in the development of a program to disrupt the eye wear industry. Lynnette also brings to the classroom her training as a Health and Leadership Coach and outstanding interpersonal skills which have given her the ability to work with individuals, executives, doctors and staff at all levels over the course of her career.
Lynette Garcia (Professional Expert)
Business, Design and Workforce - Menlo Park CenterIn Partnership With
Industry Network
