Meet Bill Underwood Treasurer, United Opticians Association

Bill, you have a very distinguished resume, can you tell us about your history in the optical industry?
I graduated in 1973 with a degree in Ophthalmic Dispensing from Erie Community College. I worked as an Optician and Contact Lens Fitter in a variety of settings prior to becoming an Opticianry Professor. Along the way I earned a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, and a Ph.D. in Education. I have had the privilege to serve as President of the National Federation of Opticianry Schools and the National Academy of Opticianry. I am currently the Chair of the American Board of Opticianry.

Of all of your accomplishments, which of these are you most proud of and why?
I am most proud of the distance learning option we developed for the Opticianry Degree Program at Hillsborough Community College. The success of our graduates has been gratifying. It reinforced my belief that access to education is critical to advancing Opticianry.

As an educator, what are you most excited about with the new organization, UOA?
There are several models as to how Opticians can be educated. From campus-based degree programs to apprenticeships with related technical instruction, there is no one best method for all situations or areas of the country. A large, unified organization can help match the best program to a potential student or state.

Where do you see the opticianry profession in 5 years?
I see the UOA helping to increase awareness and value of Opticians as an important member of the ophthalmic community. I think we will increase access to education and have additional States require certification or licensure.

What are your goals for the new organization?
Make it an organization that members want to join for life. I hope members will be proud of the organization’s efforts to promote and protect our profession. I want our goals to be measurable and attainable. One organization speaking for all Opticians can be a very powerful voice.

Hello Sandy Brown! Secretary, United Opticians Association

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your optical career?
I started wearing glasses when I was in second grade. I remember being devastated that I had to become a “four eyes” kid. I began my career in Optical in 1986 as a contact lens technician at a family owned Optometry practice called Dr. Bizers Visionworld, which is now Visionworks. I have worked there my whole career. I achieved my NCLE and ABO Certifications while working under an apprenticeship program in the state of Kentucky, then earned my Kentucky Ophthalmic License and went on to achieve my ABO Masters Certification. I became active in my State Association, The Opticians Association of Kentucky in 1992 and currently sit as Past President. I have been honored to serve as President of both the Southeastern Opticians Association and the Opticians Association of America. I am currently Chair of the NCLE.

You have been in optical leadership for many years, what skill set do you feel is needed in that role?
I feel that to be a successful Optical Leader having a “Serve Others” mentality and a passion for continuously working towards the betterment of our great profession is a must. I am committed to the growth and development of others, and I feel so blessed to have been able to hold roles in my career where I can do that.

What are you most excited about with this merger and the new UOA organization?
The synergy we will work to create! There are so many passionate contact lens and spectacle Opticians who have been working hard to improve our profession within OAA, NFOS, ABO and NCLE. I am excited to see what our future will hold now that we will all be working together!

What will your role be in this organization?
I will serve as Secretary for the UOA. I will also be working within several committees to build solid foundations to help grow both the organization and the profession.

Finally, what are your personal goals for UOA?
To establish one unified organization representing all contact lens and spectacle Opticians, no matter where they work. To attract those embarking on their career path to choose the field of Opticianry. To strengthen the value of the Optician through education and legislation. I truly believe that once the United Opticians Association takes off the sky is the limit! # Stronger Together!

Nice to Meet You Both!