Sessions: Future in Focus Virtual Career Experience 10-15-26

KEYNOTE: AI and the Evolving Role of the OD with Dr. Justin Manning, OD, MPH, FAAO, PECAA Chief Member Experience Officer

Dr. Justin Manning of PECAA (Professional Eye Care Association of America) takes you on a deep dive into how AI is already transforming the practice of optometry today, providing you with real-world examples of how technology is enhancing patient care, improving practice efficiency, and supporting clinical decision-making. Dr. Manning's discussion will focus on practical applications, emerging opportunities, and the skills future optometrists should be developing to thrive in an increasingly technology-enabled profession.

GENERAL SESSION — Find Your Career Path: Explore What’s Possible with practicing ODs Dr. Pamela Riedy, Dr. Tom Determan, and Dr. Timothy Fries

Gain a broader understanding of VSP^® and its role in eye care, going beyond vision benefits, by exploring VSP business brands and the care delivery organizations within its network. This session will give you an inside look at the technology, equipment, innovations, practice settings, geographies, and modalities that support ODs in practicing to the full scope of their license. Rather than focusing on specific jobs, the session is designed to help you better understand the range of opportunities, experiences, and career possibilities available within the broader VSP ecosystem.

BREAKOUT SESSION 1 — Inside Visionworks: Clinical Practice, and Career Possibilities with Dr. Pamela Riedy, Senior Vice President - Healthcare Services, Visionworks

Take a closer look at Visionworks as a career pathway within the broader VSP ecosystem. Through a doctor-led, conversational discussion, participants will learn what makes the Visionworks experience unique, explore its clinical settings and modalities, and hear real provider perspectives on patient care, professional support, and career growth. The session aims to help participants better understand how practicing within Visionworks connects to meaningful care, provider opportunity, and VSP’s larger role in eye care.

BREAKOUT SESSION 2 — Explore Ventures: Practice, Purpose, and Professional Growth with Dr. Timothy Fries, OD, MBA, MPH, FAAO, Senior Director of Clinical and Professional Affairs for VSP Ventures

Get a deeper look at the Ventures pathway within the VSP ecosystem, including its clinical model, practice environments, modalities, and career opportunities for ODs. Through a doctor-led discussion, participants will gain a clearer understanding of what makes Ventures distinct, hear real perspectives on care delivery and professional growth, and have the opportunity to explore questions tied to their own interests and career goals.

BREAKOUT SESSION 3 — Inside Eyemart Express: Patient Care, Practice Experience, and Growth with Dr. Tom Determan, OD, VP of Professional Affairs at Eyemart Express

Discover Eyemart Express and how it offers a distinct career pathway within the broader VSP ecosystem. Participants can expect to gain a clearer understanding of Eyemart Express’ clinical environment, provider experience, practice model, modalities, and brand differentiators through a doctor-led discussion shaped by real examples and open Q&A. The session aims to help participants better understand how Eyemart Express supports patient care, professional growth, and meaningful OD career opportunities.

BREAKOUT SESSION 4 — Careers in Eyecare: Explore Opportunities and Ask Questions with Stevie Williams, VSP Careers in Eyecare, Doctor Talent Acquisition

Participate in an open, supportive, next-step conversation where you can learn more about career opportunities, recruiter follow-up, and how to move forward after the event. You’re invited and encouraged to ask questions about open roles, career paths, specific brands, geographies, or modalities, all while gaining a clearer understanding of what information recruiters will want from you to make every follow-up meaningful and impactful to your career journey. Here’s where you turn your career interest into effective action, all in a low-pressure and helpful interactive discussion.

SESSIONS