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Episode 32: Training and Recruitment Challenges in the Optical Profession with James Gibbins

Everyone loses when thousands of optical assistants are untrained. It's not their fault; it's just that they're out there performing optical services that they haven't got any idea about. – James Gibbins


In this episode, Michael Nasser is joined by James Gibbins, Director of Education at ACOD and one of the legends in Australia's optical industry, to dive into the two critical areas of the optical profession: training and recruitment.


With over four decades of experience, James unpacks the current training gap impacting untrained optical assistants, outdated recruitment models, and how practice can build a sustainable, skilled workforce for the future through education, empowerment, and culture change. This episode is a must-listen for optical business owners, optometrists, dispensers, and practice managers who want to strengthen their teams, improve patient care, and future-proof their practices through better training and recruitment strategies.


James Gibbins is a widely respected figure in both the optical and education industries and holds qualifications in Optical Dispensing, Optical Mechanics, a Bachelor of Education (Vocational Education) from UTS, and a Cert IV in Training and Assessment. James is known for his passion for student success and progressive approach to training. He has taught thousands across Australasia and is dedicated to ensuring the student journey is a successful and satisfying one.


Key Topics with Timestamps:

1:18 - James Gibbins' journey to the optical profession

4:48 - Biggest challenges that the optical industry faces

6:32 - The impact of an untrained optical assistant on the practice and patient care

10:43 - Key benefits of proper training

14:26 - Corporate vs. Independent training culture

18:22 - Recruitment challenges and how businesses can adapt

20:20 - Creating an attractive career pathway

28:35 - Addressing employer hesitations about training investments

31:45 - What retention looks like in high-performing practice

33:26 - What's new to ACOD: A Diploma in optical dispensing is coming

37:09  - Continuing education with ODA & CPD

43:44 - How to improve training and recruitment efforts


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Thank you for joining us in this episode of The Focused View Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, give us a 5-Star rating, and leave a review on Apple Podcast and Spotify to help us reach even more eye care professionals and build a community of innovation and see new opportunities within the optical industry. Talk with you next time!

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