Advancing Eyecare Insider
Employee Newsletter | Issue 10 | December 2024
Wrapping Up 2024 With Gratitude: Gearing Up for a Stellar 2025!
As we close out another year and celebrate the holiday season, it’s timely to reflect on all we’ve accomplished and express gratitude for the hard work and collaboration that made 2024 so fantastic. As we look forward to 2025, it’s the perfect time to set new goals and embrace fresh challenges. Thoughtfully consider what you’d like to achieve, both personally and professionally, and break those goals into actionable steps. Whether it’s expanding your skills, strengthening team connections, or finding a better work-life balance, setting clear intentions can help you start the new year with focus and motivation.
Wishing everyone a joyful holiday season and a bright start to the New Year.
A Timeline of Advancing Eyecare's Evolution and Milestones
We’re excited to share this updated visual journey through our company’s history! This timeline highlights key milestones that have shaped our growth and success, serving as a testament to the remarkable teamwork that continues to propel us forward. Take a moment to explore the timeline and celebrate the moments that have defined our growth and innovation.
Santinelli Celebrates 16 Years as #1 in Lens Edging!
Santinelli has once again been honored with the EyeVote Reader’s Choice Award — winning for the 16th consecutive year! We are deeply grateful for the trust and partnership of our customers, which inspire us to remain sharp, innovative, and dedicated to providing top-tier lens edging solutions.
ECP/Retail In-Office Lab Equipment
- Best Finishing Brand
- Best Company
Optical Equipment for Wholesale Prescription Labs
- Best Finishing Brand
Here’s to over 50 years of excellence — and many more to come!
INNOVA Canada Sets New Standards with Launch of NIDEK RS-1 Glauvas OCT
INNOVA recently unveiled the NIDEK RS-1 Glauvas OCT, marking a major milestone in our diagnostic portfolio. This cutting-edge OCT device combines unprecedented speed, precision, and advanced analytics, positioning it as a game-changer in ocular diagnostics. With a scan rate of 250,000 A-scans per second — three times faster than its predecessor — the RS-1 Glauvas provides rapid, high-resolution imaging that addresses patient fixation issues, offering enhanced clarity and comfort during exams. The system’s deep imaging capability extends to 4.2 mm, perfect for capturing details in the optic nerve and vascular arcade, critical for diagnosing and managing glaucoma and retinal conditions.
Our Canadian launch strategy ensured that all key components were meticulously covered. We equipped our reps with comprehensive training, marketing materials, and competitive insights to emphasize the RS-1’s unique features. All internal stakeholders — Clinical Support, Service, and Order Management — were pivotal to the successful launch.
The launch took place in Toronto and Montreal where our teams engaged in a training program that included pre-reading, quizzes, and hands-on demonstrations in competitive sales scenarios. This comprehensive approach not only prepared the team to communicate the RS-1’s capabilities confidently but also strengthened our commitment to clinical excellence and customer satisfaction.
INNOVA is proud to lead with the RS-1 Glauvas, setting a new standard for OCT technology in Canada. With this launch, we’re not just introducing a product; we’re enhancing the tools Canadian eye care professionals need to elevate patient care.
Strengthening Partnerships: US National Accounts Team Hosts Kaiser Technical Services Training Summit
Sharing Expertise, Product Training, and Forging Friendships
On November 11 and 12, 2024, Advancing Eyecare Corporate Accounts hosted 35 Kaiser Permanente Clinical Technology technicians at the Kaiser Tustin Design and Innovation Center for a full-day training, split into two groups over two days. The sessions featured a comprehensive dive into the Marco TRS-6100 digital refraction system and Haag-Streit slit lamps. Lennie Olson, our lead equipment integration specialist, traveled from Jacksonville to train on Marco Connect, and was supported by expert AEC field technicians teaching slit lamp troubleshooting and tonometer calibration checks.
The feedback from attendees was fantastic, reflecting the value of these hands-on, face-to-face sessions in building strong client relationships. Events like this showcase the concierge-style service that distinguishes Advancing Eyecare, particularly when supporting large organizations, schools, and hospitals. By blending the expertise of Corporate Accounts and AEC Services, we go beyond installation and repairs to equip clients with the tools and knowledge to get the most out of their equipment. More impactful collaborations are on the horizon for the year ahead!
Optical Women's Association December Podcast Features Colleen Arbus!
Congratulations to Colleen Arbus, Vice President, Sales – Canada, who is this month’s featured guest on the OWA Talks Podcast. The OWA Talks Podcast is a resource from the Optical Women’s Association to gain insights into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by women in the optical industry. The monthly chats feature expert guests who share valuable experiences and knowledge, fostering a supportive community that empowers women to excel in their careers.
In this episode, Colleen talks about the value of being able to pivot, both personally and professionally and shares her tips for how to apply sales techniques in your everyday life.
🎙️ Listen to the podcast today!
Did you know?
Advancing Eyecare is a Platinum Partner of the Optical Women’s Association. The Optical Women’s Association is a professional organization focused on supporting and empowering women in the optical industry through networking, mentorship, leadership development, and recognition programs. In fact, one of our very own, Meghan Jeffords from our US National Accounts team, was just awarded a $2,000 professional development scholarship! Learn more at opticalwomen.com.
If you are interested in getting involved with the OWA, contact Kristen Tischler, Vice President Global Marketing, at ktischler@advancingeycare.com to learn more.
HR Corner
Exciting News! Transition to ADP – Important Information for All US Employees
We’re excited to announce that starting on 12/20/2024, we will be transitioning to ADP for both payroll and timekeeping. This means that clocking in and out will begin on Friday, 12/20 through the ADP system.
To ensure a smooth transition, please make sure all your registration steps are completed by this time. Once registered, you’ll have access to your pay stubs, tax forms, and the ability to manage your timekeeping records.
If you have any questions or experience any issues, HR is here to assist, or you can reach out to ADP Life Advisors at 844-448-0325.
Thank you for your cooperation as we make this transition! We’re looking forward to an easy and efficient process for everyone.
Open Enrollment News for INNOVA Employees
2025 is an open enrollment year. You can review your previous benefit plan options to see if they continue to meet your future needs. It allows you to change your plan without having a life status change. You will be locked into these options until December 2026.
On December 6th you received an open enrollment invitation email from our administrative partner Effortlessadmin. The email will come from groupbenefits@effortlessadmin.com . Final date to make your selections is December 30th at 2 pm. Even if you don’t want to make changes, this is a good time to ensure your dependents and beneficiary information is up to date. Changes that come in after December 30th will not be processed.
Plan updates are available in BambooHR / Blue Cross Benefits / 2025 Updates
Interactive Corner
And the winners are….
Thank you to everyone who participated in our fun AEC Eye Exam featured in the last edition of the AEC Insider. Employees who completed the exam were entered in a drawing and three random names were picked to receive Advancing Eyecare swag. Congratulations to the winners!
Congratulations to Our Recently Promoted Team Members!
Join us in celebrating these well-deserving individuals as they take on new challenges and responsibilities within the Advancing Eyecare organization. Their commitment to excellence, leadership, and teamwork continues to inspire us all. We’re proud to see our team grow and thrive, and we look forward to the continued success they’ll bring in their new roles.
Wishing A Fond Farewell to Our Retiring Colleagues
Please join us in celebrating our retiring employees as we recognize their achievements and wish them well as they embark on this exciting new chapter. These individuals have dedicated years of hard work, passion, and expertise, helping shape the success and culture we enjoy today. Their legacy will continue to inspire us all.
Thank you for your years of service. We wish you a fulfilling and joyful retirement!
Life Events Around the Company
Congratulations to our 2023 Core Values Winners
JUNE LIU
INNOVA | Toronto, Canada
“June always shares experience and knowledge, and she always listens to opinions and suggestions. She displays integrity in everything she does. As a manger, she provides clear instruction and diligently leads to find solutions.”
GREG GANT
MARCO | Jacksonville, Florida
“Greg is one of the most helpful and supportive people I have ever worked with. He has amazing follow up with customers and always has a happy and positive attitude.”
JAY MEHIC
EMS | St. Louis, Missouri
“Jay is constantly spearheading efforts to proactively increase internal efficiencies and eliminate bottlenecks in our process that also improve savings to our bottom line. He holds himself to high standards and pushes for fellow members of AEC to do the same when it comes to better service for our customers.”
CHRISSIE PATTISON
ADVANCING EYECARE | Jacksonville, Florida
“Chrissie works her tail off and it shows in the success of our trade show activities. She manages hundreds of shows, communicating with every single one of our sales teams and almost every department in the company. The shows are a huge effort and she does it with grace and dedication.”
Welcome to All of Our Recent New Hires!
- Matt Chalmers, INNOVA Sales Representative – Ophthalmic Division
- Calvin Coleman, AEC Field Service Technician
- Angelica Dunn, AEC Sales Support Specialist
- William Ferguson, AEC Warehouse Associate
- Leonardo Hernandez Cruz, S4Optik Mexico Service Engineer
- Derrick Jackson, AEC Warehouse Associate
- Megan Nielsen, AEC Service Coordinator Manager (East Coast)
- Naomy Ortiz-Minton, AEC Customer Service Representative
- Manuel Pineda Gaxiola, S4Optik Mexico Sales Representative
- Cathy Bujold Miles, INNOVA Customer Service Representative
- DeAndre Chisolm, AEC Service Advisor
- Mobina Nasiri, INNOVA Clinical & Technical Support
- Scott Shaughnessy, CFO Advancing Eyecare
- Alexander Simao, AEC Warehouse Associate
- Saeed Akrami, AEC Service Technician
- James Armstrong, AEC Service Technician
- Manolito Camba, AEC Service Technician
- Gregory Chester, Marco Lombart Area Manager
- Susan DiDomenico, AEC AR Specialist
- Jonathan Gutierrez, AEC Field Service Technician
- Jacob Huot, AEC Sales Associate
- Darryl Johnson, AEC Clinical Support Engineer
- Jeff Kreitel, Marco Lombart Area Manager
- Daniel Ochoa Estrada, S4Optik Mexico Service Engineer
- Kyle Madden, Marco Lombart Area Manager
- Sadaf Rashtchian, AEC Clinical & Technical Support
- Nehemy Rene, AEC Warehouse Associate
- Terrellyn Simmons, AEC Customer Service Representative
- Matthew Thorsen, Marco Lombart Area Manager
- Gynann Threadgill, AEC Service Technician
- Mark Warren, AEC Field Service Technician
- Jocelyn Gutierrez Torres, S4Optik Mexico Accounts Receivable
- Roy Hinkley, AEC Warehouse Associate
- Kiara McKibben, AEC Sales Associate
- LaTreasa Sampson, AEC Customer Service Representative
Celebrating Milestone Work Anniversaries
Celebrating August - November milesone anniversaries. Thank you for your hard work, dedication, and loyalty!
30+ years
Jim Campbell, AEC Parts Manager – 45 years
Dawn Grier, AEC Operations Manager (CA) – 35 years
Jeff Parker, AEC Assistant Operations Manager (VA) – 38 years
Don Quinn, Marco Lombart Area Manager – 37 years
David Spear, AEC President and Chief Strategy Officer – 38 years
26-30 years
Mike Brown, Marco Lombart Area Manager – 26 years
Mary Anne Evans, AEC Sales Support Manager – 26 years
Diana Ozarko, INNOVA Sales Representative – 29 years
Wendy Spittal, AEC Accounting Manager – 26 years
Linda Spivey, AEC Sales Support Specialist – 26 years
20-25 years
Jason Caskey, AEC Field Service Technician – 24 years
Suzanne Holt, AEC Sales Support Specialist – 23 years
Sabrina Jackson, AEC Depot Service Coordinator – 23 years
Mark Retter, AEC Field Service Technician – 24 years
Chris Sarakaitis, AEC Senior Director of Training & Clinical Support – 23 years
Francois Turgeon, INNOVA Sales Representative – 20 years
15 years
Alyson Robey, AEC Director of Business Development; Private Equity
Myles Taylor, AEC Corporate Accounts Project Manager
10 years
Brent Fegley, AEC Services Field Service Technician
Rob Greco, Santinelli Senior Sales Consultant
David Hale, Marco Lombart Area Manager
Corey Sampson, IT Technician
Warren Tom, President INNOVA
5 years
Kellie Knight, Marco Lombart Area Manager
Harley Morrell, AEC Inside Sales Representative
Kevin Williams, Vice President Sales, Marco Lombart
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Advancing Eyecare is an Equal Opportunity Employer.