Wolfgang Cagnolati studied optometry at HFOF Berlin, the precursor of today's degree program in ophthalmic optics/optometry at the Beuth University of Applied Sciences Berlin and at the Pennsylvania College of Optometry of Salus University, USA. He practiced clinical optometry in Duisburg and is Visiting Associate Professor at the Pennsylvania College of Optometry and visiting lecturer at Beuth University of Applied Sciences Berlin. In addition, he is Honorary Chairman of the Association of German Contact Lenses-Specialists and Optometrists (VDCO), Lifetime Honorary Member of the Dutch Optometric Organisation (OVN) and Past President of the European Council of Optometry and Optics (ECOO).

He has received many national and international awards, including the 'Verdienstkreuz am Bande des Verdienstordens der Bundesrepublik Deutschland', an Honorary Doctor of Science Degree from Pennsylvania College of Optometry, the 'Léon Hauck Preis' of Zentralverband der Augenoptiker und Optometristen (ZVA), the 'Witelo Medallie' of the Department of Optometry and Biology of Visual System of the University of Medical Science Poznan, Poland, the 'Optometrie Preis 2010' of VDCO, the Life Fellowship Award of the College of Optometrists, UK and the Essilor Award for Outstanding International Contribution to Optometry of the American Academy of Optometry.

Wolfgang Cagnolati is co-editor of the book 'Kinderoptometrie' published by DOZ Verlag, co-author of two German and two English book chapters and author of over 100 publications in peer-reviewed and professional journals. He has lectured in 26 countries of the world.