Hello! I’m thrilled to have taken on the role of Director of Education for the UOA as of July 1, 2024. Since then, the UOA Education Committee and I have been busy exploring education opportunities.

Here are a few I’d like to highlight in this update:

Building Exposure to Opticianry
I recently attended an advisory board meeting of the Vision Care Program at Medina County Career Center in my home state of Ohio— the only high school-level, optical-related program in the state. During the meeting, plans were announced for a new Vision Care Program lab for the 2024-25 school year. Additionally, I began discussions with the program coordinator on ways to replicate this program at other high schools. Stay tuned for updates in the future.

Preparing for an ABO Certification Exam?
I’m happy to announce that the UOA has earmarked $50,000 to continue the ever-popular review courses in 2025. Taught by an instructor from a UOA member school, review courses are meant to address and instill confidence in weak areas the learner may have before taking the National Opticianry Competency Exam (NOCE) or Contact Lens Registry Exam (CLRE). The UOA is proud to work with member schools and state societies to help prepare the next generation of certified and/or licensed opticians. Please see below for more information on upcoming events offering review courses.

Sincerely,
Bob Alexander, ABOM, NCLEM

Plan a Review Course
If you are planning a state society or association meeting and would like to incorporate an ABO and/or NCLE review course, please send an e-mail to our Director of Education, Bob Alexander.

Review Course Book Discounts
We are in the final stages of securing contracts with two review course book authors in order to provide their books at an exclusive discounted rate for UOA members. Stay tuned for updates.

Scholarship Applications Now Open
Applications are open NOW through 12/15/24 for the James Michael Morris Family Scholarship! Four $2,500 scholarships are available to support opticianry apprentices currently enrolled in a board-approved and registered program. Learn more.

Educational Spotlight from Our Partner
Discover how Dr. Kurt Moody, OD, FBCLA, FAAO, Dipl. AAO addresses patient expectations and innovation, as well as Johnson & Johnson’s initiatives for managing patients both now and in the future. Read more.

Become a Member
Elevate your career and stay at the forefront of opticianry education by becoming a member of UOA! Access member-only educational resources, training, and courses designed to help you stand out from the rest. Join/Renew