Meet West Metro Eye's Opticians

Eric began his career as an Optician in April 2013, an unexpected path that quickly became a passion. After five years in retail optics with Target Optical and Visionworks, he transitioned to private practice, joining West Metro Eye in October 2018. With more than 13 years of experience, Eric brings deep technical expertise and exceptional patient care to his work. He holds a degree in Organizational Management and Communications from Concordia University–St. Paul and has extensive leadership and supply chain management experience that enhances his approach to optical operations and customer service. Outside of work, Eric enjoys boating and jet skiing, discovering local spots for great food, spending time with his dogs and close friends, and traveling with his partner.

Maria has been an optician since May 2009. She started her career in optics quite unexpectedly. In need of a job after college, she walked into a LensCrafters. It was there she found her new passion and obtained her American Board of Opticianry certification the following year. Maria worked in retail optics at LensCrafters and Target Optical for many years before finding her way into private practice at West Metro Eye in June 2022, where she works as a seasoned board-certified optician. Maria has a bachelor's degree in Arts Administration, Instrumental Music from Butler University in Indianapolis. She continues her love of music as a percussionist in the St. Louis Park Community Band where she is on the board of directors. Maria grew up right here in the northwest metro and still lives here with her husband and three children. In her spare time, she likes to play games with her children, make crafts by knitting and crocheting, and attend Zumba classes.

Karen got her start in Optics in 1985 at Benson Optical. In her 5 years with Benson, Karen was recognized both at the state and national levels for being a top contributor in sales and for her great customer service. After dabbling in the food/beverage industry, real estate, and teaching Bikram yoga for many of the following years, Karen brings a lot of compassion and active listening to her customer service at WME. Karen's favorite part of being an Optician at WME, is being able to work with our patients on finding the best frame that will pair with their prescription, often being a complex combination. Karen also enjoys working with the wide variety of age generations within our offices. Outside of work, she enjoys being a U2 groupie, spending time at the cabin with her husband and dog, Louie. Karen loves music and traveling around the globe, where she oftentimes combines the two. Karen is also passionate about animals and the organizations that protect their survival.