The Optometric Business Academy (ODBA) is an 8-week intensive, virtual course designed to elevate optometrists, practice leaders and third- and fourth-year optometry students into empowered, data-driven leaders. Whether you're facing staff challenges, unclear metrics or inconsistent systems — this course equips you to lead with clarity and direction. Walk away with actionable strategies and expert insight to help you:
The Live 2025 Summer/Fall Session will be held July 23 - October 29.
Whether you're looking to fine-tune your operations, strengthen your leadership skills, or gain a deeper understanding of your financials, ODBA is designed to help you lead smarter and grow stronger!
Next session starts July 23 — don’t miss your chance to transform the way you run your business.
Justin Manning, OD, MPH, FAAO PECAA Chief Member Experience Officer
Building and growing a private practice is one of the most fulfilling aspects of being an optometrist. Yet, running a successful business takes time, experience, and knowledge — knowledge that isn’t extensively taught in optometry school. On top of that, we often don’t give the business the same level of care we give our patients. We built the OD Business Academy specifically for the optometrist — current owners, associates and future practice owners alike. Applying the business management principles and expertise within this program will empower any optometrist to grow their practice, increase its profitability and enhance the culture of its employees.
ODBA will meet live for eight one-hour sessions on the following Wednesdays at 4:00 pm PT / 7:00 pm ET:
COPE Accreditation Pending for 8 hours of Practice Management CE* (live only).
*You must attend the live events to qualify for the CE credit.
With more than 40 years of experience in the optical industry, Valerie Manso is a recognized authority in optometric business leadership and staff development. She began her career in optical retail, rising through the ranks to serve as Director of Retail Operations for a 60-location chain, where she oversaw 38 affiliated optometric practices, three wholesale labs and more than 270 employees. Valerie later transitioned into key training and development roles at American Optical, Sola Optical, Eyefinity and VSP Vision Care. Valerie now brings her unparalleled expertise directly to PECAA members, helping practices strengthen their operations from the inside out. Her sessions are known for being practical, engaging and full of actionable insights that translate immediately to practice success.