The Vision Council (TVC) brought together more than 200 optical laboratory professionals for its sold-out 2026 Lab Leadership Forum at the M Resort Spa Casino in Henderson, Nevada from September 16 to 18.

The 3-day event focused on networking, professional development, and issues affecting the optical laboratory sector, including market research and regulatory issues. Educational programming included panel discussions on lens design, equipment, and lab management systems. The program also included a welcome reception and a golf tournament that were designed to provide opportunities for attendees to connect with other laboratory professionals.

During a dinner on the second evening, TVC presented the 2026 Goodfellow Award to Brandon Butler, founder and CEO of Artisan Lab Network. The award recognizes an industry professional for leadership and contributions to progress and innovation within the vision community. Butler is marking 25 years in the optical industry and has been an advocate for independent optical laboratories, according to a press release issued by TVC.

TVC also held its 2026 Emerging Optical Leaders Retreat ahead of the Lab Leadership Forum. The annual program connects emerging industry leaders and encourages development of leadership skills. This year’s retreat included a networking activity at Red Rock Canyon and a leadership development workshop.

“Attendees will take the conversations and programming from these gatherings back to their companies and implement changes that will continue to mold our community,” said Michael Vitale, vice president of membership, government relations, and technical affairs at TVC, in the press release.

Sponsors of the 2026 Lab Leadership Forum can be found on the event page.