Optical Training Institute (OTI) recently announced that its Optician Development Program (ODP) has officially been approved by the Florida Board of Opticianry. This significant milestone qualifies the completion of ODP to count for 2,080 hours of training for Florida apprentices.
The Optician Development Program (ODP) is a cutting-edge online career training initiative designed to teach the essential skills and knowledge necessary for success as an optician. The program bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, offering a real-world, hands-on approach to opticianry. Structured as a flexible work-study program, ODP allows learners to access content anytime, anywhere, and at their own pace.
The program includes three comprehensive courses—Boot Camp, Spectacle, and Contact Lens—covering critical topics that prepare aspiring opticians for ABO and NCLE certification, licensure (in applicable states), and a successful career in the eye care industry. ODP offers an engaging and motivating learning experience through informative videos, 3D illustrations, and a wide range of study aids.
OTI is dedicated to supporting student success, providing a variety of hands-on resources and services such as one-on-one tutoring with experienced optician instructors and OTI office hours for additional guidance. Sponsors also receive free access to the full program, a sponsor dashboard to track student progress, and a training manual to accompany each lesson.
The approval of the Optician Development Program by the Florida Board of Opticianry is a major milestone that highlights the program’s excellence and relevance. This approval showcases that OTI’s curriculum meets the rigorous standards required for opticianry training, equipping apprentices with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the industry.
“Programs like ODP are excellent training options for those who choose the apprenticeship pathway. Structured programs provide a standard curriculum to equip apprentices with the essential skills to excel in their careers and empower sponsors to mentor the next generation of opticians effectively. These efforts ensure the continued growth of the profession and the improvement of patient care.” – Dee Pace, Executive Director, Professional Opticians of Florida.
To raise awareness of the program, OTI will be sponsoring the next series of POF’s live and online Apprentice training courses, further supporting the development of skilled opticians in Florida.
With this approval, Florida apprentices can count the completion of the program for 2,080 of their required apprenticeship hours which can accelerate their path to licensure. The ODP curriculum ensures that apprentices are thoroughly prepared for both the practical and theoretical demands of the profession. By providing structured training options, this program not only accelerates licensure but also helps increase the number of qualified opticians in the state, directly contributing to improved patient care.
In addition to Florida, ODP has been approved by several other state boards or departments in: Alaska, Arizona, Georgia, Massachusetts, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. This multi-state recognition reflects widespread confidence in the quality of OTI’s training across different regions. The approval in Florida, a key state for opticianry, further solidifies OTI’s position as a leading provider of optician education.
“I would recommend ODP to other Opticians. It is very beneficial for someone starting with little or no optical experience. However, also for those that do have experience it helps you refresh your knowledge and may even help teach you something new as well.” – Jordan Foster, Wilson Optical in Florida.
The Optician Development Program has been a valuable resource for apprentices nationwide, and now Florida apprentices can receive credit toward licensure. With a flexible and comprehensive curriculum designed to fit your schedule, ODP offers the perfect solution for those seeking a fast and effective route to licensure.
To learn more about the Optician Development Program or to schedule a demo, visit their website.
About Optical Training Institute
Optical Training Institute is a recognized leader in optical education, with over 30 years of experience providing high-quality courses to more than 30,000 professionals across the United States. Committed to supporting lifelong learning and career advancement for eye care professionals, OTI offers career training, exam preparation, and continuing education programs for opticians and optometrists. OTI is a trusted corporate education partner to leading optical employers and provides courses directly to opticians seeking to improve their skills and advance their careers.
