Established in 1926 as the Guild of Prescription Opticians, OAA is the only national organization representing opticianry's business, professional, educational, legislative and regulatory interests. Under OAA's very broad umbrella, individuals providing eyeglasses or contact lenses to consumers, as well as owner / managers of retail optical firms, state optician societies and suppliers to professional optician find a common goal in Advancing America's Opticians. OAA fosters, supports and sponsors programs of competency certification, licensing and continuing education for professional development.