I am very proud to be writing my first column as ABDO president. I often stop to wonder how I came to be in such an honoured role as this.
I was actually working as a van driver when I began my FBDO studies via distance learning – and my career journey has been one of growth and resilience ever since.
Though a spectacle wearer from a young age, I did not consider this as a career choice after leaving school. However, in my 30s, an optometrist I knew encouraged me to return to education and complete my dispensing optics studies.
As I didn’t have the necessary qualifications to gain entry to the course, I attended a local college to attain my English and Maths certificates.
After accepting a position as an optical assistant in an independent practice, I soon met the requirements to start the distance learning course.
The next three years were tough at times, as I had two young children at school – but I had wonderful support from my family, an amazing supervisor and other practice team members. In fact, I was the company’s first employee to train to become a dispensing optician (DO).
After qualifying in 2001, I became involved with the former ABDO Area 12 in Scotland – and then in 2017, became ABDO’s first regional lead in Scotland. I cannot stress enough how important this position is for our members, so do please get to know your own regional lead.
I now also represent ABDO at Optometry Scotland’s executive and council committees, alongside Graeme Stevenson. Having a seat at multiple tables, including Public Services Delivery Scotland (formerly NES Scotland) and the Scottish government, ensures that our members’ voices are heard.
In 2018, I was voted onto the ABDO Board by the membership and, since then, have gained a greater understanding of the work that goes on behind the scenes and, of course, the challenges.
One of my biggest professional advancements to date was being elected as ABDO vice president in 2024.
Now, moving forward as president, I am aware that our members face continuous challenges – not least in the acceleration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. However, I believe that as DOs we excel in clinical judgement, creativity, relationship management, communications and strategic thinking – capabilities that AI can augment but will never replace.
Finally, I would say to all members – from those members just learning the ropes to those seeking new challenges – getting involved with your Association can be an extremely rewarding career trajectory.
And with hard work and self-belief, it could be you writing this column one day.