ClearVision Optical, a leading designer and distributor of eyewear and sunwear, has been named one of the 2026 Best Companies to Work for in New York—marking the 11th time the company has earned this distinction.
Selected from more than 1,500 applicants, ClearVision was one of just 63 companies recognized statewide. The company ranked #15 in the medium-sized category (100–249 employees), placing it in the top 25% of companies overall.
The award, presented by the New York State Council of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), Best Companies Group, BridgeTower Media, and Rochester Business Journal, recognizes organizations across the state that demonstrate exceptional workplace culture and employee engagement.
Unlike many workplace awards, the Best Companies program is largely driven by employee feedback. The evaluation process consists of two parts: a review of company policies, practices, and demographics (25%), and a confidential employee survey measuring the overall workplace experience (75%).
“We’re incredibly proud to be recognized for the 11th time, but what makes this award especially meaningful is how it’s determined,” said Jennifer Trakhtenberg, Chief People Officer and Co-Chief Operating Officer at ClearVision Optical. “Because the majority of the score comes from our employees’ feedback, this honor reflects the real, lived experience of our team. We’ve built an environment centered on continuous learning, career development, and creating opportunities for people to contribute and grow. Our values—including having fun and supporting one another—aren’t just words, they show up in how we work every day. This recognition reflects the strong relationships across our teams and our shared commitment to doing meaningful work in eyecare.”
The Best Companies to Work for in New York program is a research-driven initiative designed to identify and honor organizations that excel in creating quality workplaces.
“The 2026 Best Companies to Work for in New York know that the people in their organizations are the key to their success,” said Suzanne Fischer-Huettner, managing director of BridgeTower Media/Rochester Business Journal. “These businesses create environments that foster teamwork and excellence, which in turn leads to better service and stronger organizations.”
For ClearVision, the recognition reinforces a long-standing commitment to building an environment rooted in values, performance, and continuous improvement. As a second-generation, family-owned company, CVO combines deep heritage with an agile, forward-looking mindset—embracing innovation and technology while staying grounded in purpose-driven work in eyecare. The company continues to invest in career development, encourage employees to raise their hands and share ideas, and create multiple pathways for feedback and growth.
Participation in the Best Companies program is also an intentional part of ClearVision’s approach to learning and growth. By engaging alongside other high-performing organizations across industries, the company gains insight into best practices while reinforcing its belief that attracting and retaining great talent is a key differentiator. The process provides an opportunity to listen, learn, and continue evolving as an employer of choice.
“Programs like this give us a meaningful opportunity to listen,” Trakhtenberg added. “The feedback helps us understand what we’re doing well and where we can continue to improve. Our team is most engaged when they have multiple ways to share ideas, and that ongoing dialogue is what helps us keep getting better.”
The 2026 winners were honored at an awards ceremony held April 21 at the Marriott Albany, in Albany, NY.
