American businessman and author Robert Kiyosaki has been credited with saying, “Sight is what you see with your eyes, vision is what you see with your mind.” This quote connects with the story of Wiregrass graduate James Vu.
James is the Optical Manager at Southern Eye Center in Valdosta and is a graduate of the Opticianry program at Wiregrass Tech. He graduated with a diploma in 2014 and recently with an Associate’s Degree from Wiregrass. James’ job not only allows him to help others with proper eyewear to see, but also helps current Wiregrass students with their career vision. Vu has been an adjunct instructor for the program and currently serves on the advisory committee. He is able to provide great insight from a student, employer, and educational point of view. “I can advise the college on new ideas and eyeglass trends as well as help students to prepare for interviews with potential employers and how to be proficient at their career,” shared James. He has touched lives of others through mission trips to Mexico with his practice where he was able to fit eyeglasses for those in need.
As an Optician, James is able to design, fit, and dispense eyeglass lenses to correct a patient’s vision. Determining what a patient would need based on the type of work and lifestyles. Giving personalized attention to patient’s eye care is an essential part of what an optician does including troubleshooting any problems. Wiregrass offers Opticianry as a degree or diploma program as well as an Eyewear Dispensing Specialist certificate. The last graduating class had 100% of the students pass their national certification exams before they graduated. The program boasts a 100% job placement rate.
“I feel the most important preparation from Wiregrass for me was the hands-on training I received,” shared James. “Not just in the classrooms, but also my internship through Wiregrass’ established relationships with community businesses.” The program accepts new students each Fall Semester. To learn more about the program and other health services programs visit Wiregrass.edu.