Optician Highlight: Meet Aimee

As we celebrate 20 years of our Optical Shoppe, we are especially thankful for the talented professionals who make up our optical team! Today, we’re highlighting Aimee, an experienced optician who is passionate about her work. Read on below!

1. Tell us a bit about yourself and your family.

I grew up in a small town called Greenfield. I graduated from McClain High School in 1994 where I did numerous sports and activities, like cheerleading, track, and softball. I graduated from Southern Ohio College in 1996 with an Associate Degree in Optical Science. I passed the State Board in 1996 and have been in this field working to this day. I have one daughter who just graduated high school with honors and is attending Xavier University studying Biomedical Sciences Pre-Med to be a Radiologist. My significant other has been in the medical field just as long but in numerous positions as Fire Chief, Fire Investigator, CPR trainer, EMS Chief, and more. We have a one-year-old Goldendoodle named Tucker as well as a cat named Skittles.

2. What attracted you to be part of the COA team?

I admire the doctors’ compassion for their patients. I wanted to be in an environment that was challenging and exciting but also one where you could always laugh and have fun with your work family. I love my job and knowing when I come to work that I am part of a team. The biggest thing is that I enjoy coming to work, and everyone should have a job they love going to.

3. How do you ensure a “perfect fit” for each patient?

Comfort and style matter! I ask questions so that we know a patient’s everyday activities. Without knowing some lifestyle questions, you will not know the correct needs and lens designs to fit the patient. I also ask if they have had any issues in the past with glasses to eliminate any issues.

4. Why did you choose to become an optician?

I was a junior in high school when I began my career in 1993. I had my first interaction with a patient who could not see and had never worn glasses before. She began to cry the moment she tried on her new glasses, and that was one of the greatest moments I can remember. From then on, it has always been my goal to make a difference.

5. What is it you most enjoy about being an optician?

I love the smiles on people’s faces when they can see clearly for the first time or more clearly than they have been able to in a very long time! I make it a fun process. No one looks forward to picking out glasses, and it is our job to make it a smooth, easy, and fun experience as best we can.

6. What do you do to help children choose the best frame?

The number one thing is to try to get them excited about wearing glasses. I let them pick out a pair first. Then, we will find the perfect size. They need to be a part of the process, or they will not wear the glasses.

7. What skills are essential to being a great optician?

Patience, compassion, respect, being a great listener, and honesty (about what fits or looks good) are all important. If I would not wear the glasses, I will not let my patient wear them. I always want to feel proud that I took great care of my patients, and if they are not happy, we should not be happy.