Meet the finalists for the INTERNATIONAL OPTICIAN OF THE YEAR 2024: Phernell Walker (USA)

Phernell is no stranger to the International Optician of the Year, having been a finalist in 2023. He is a well-known and sought after speaker. Over the course of 32 years in optics, he has lectured in 48 states and several countries, teaching ophthalmic optics to thousands of individuals. His extensive experience has allowed him to share his knowledge and expertise in the field, contributing to its continuous growth and development.

He currently holds the position of Vice Chair for the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) and serve on the Board of Directors for the United Opticians Association (UOA). In these roles, he contributes as an Item Writer for the Advanced and Basic exams, which serve as the national standard for over 74,000 opticians in the United States. “Although these responsibilities require a significant amount of time, they are non-compensated positions that I gladly undertake. It is truly an honor for me to serve and represent and champion my profession.”

Phernell prides himself on his professionalism where he recognizes the significance of maintaining a high standard in both his professional and personal image. This may be when he is travelling extensively around the USA or internationally to teach ophthalmic optics at optical conferences, colleges of optometry, or opticianry schools, or even volunteering his time, striving to share his passion for ophthalmic optics in an engaging manner. He is known for making himself accessible to anyone who seeks assistance in progressing in eye care. He is recognised as an opinion leader and role model meaning he has to consistently demonstrate professionalism. He is committed to elevating the profession and setting a positive example for others in the industry.

Phernell is very active on social media spreading enthusiasm for the profession. In order to effectively support Eyecare, I believe in utilizing multiple platforms to communicate my message. This includes leveraging popular social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and more. I connect with eye care professionals showcasing eye care conferences and even my personal family life. By utilizing these platforms, I can reach a wider audience and ensure that my message reaches as many people as possible. I also believe in utilizing technology that is widely accessible and commonly used, as it allows me to leverage enabling technologies to connect with and engage a thousands of individuals.

Phernell is Vice President of Optometric Relations at Eyefinity, focussing on cultivating strong relationships with VSP network providers nationwide. His responsibility is to develop, sustain, and enhance relationships with all members of an eye care practice, including staff, optometrists, and ophthalmologists. To achieve this, he frequently visits practices, participates in conferences, and delivers educational courses. Through these interactions, he bridges the gap between providers’ needs and Eyefinity’s optical technology, ensuring ongoing advancements and improvements.

As a speaker and author, he has expanded his business by publishing the textbook “Pure Optics,” now in its Third Edition. This comprehensive resource has been utilized by over 7,000 opticians and optometrists. He has gained recognition and expertise in advanced ophthalmic optics, specifically in areas such as prism, micro-prisms, binocular vision dysfunction, and spectacle lens design. His specialization lies in these intricate aspects of eye care, allowing him to provide comprehensive and specialized solutions to patients and practitioners in need. His creativity shines through by generating original content to educate and engage both new and seasoned opticians. As part of this initiative, he utilizes optical heap arts game boards developing fun and interactive sessions to make the study of optics even more enjoyable and engaging.

Despite growing up in challenging circumstances, Phernell firmly believes in the importance of giving back to his community. He says that his overarching goal is to elevate the field of Opticianry not only within the United States but also on a global scale. To further this mission, he also volunteers at a Women’s Correctional Facility’s Optical Program, where he has donated multiple Pure Optics textbooks to their program, and taught classes and even served as an exam proctor for the American Board of Opticianry National Opticians Competency exam to incarcerated ladies working to rehabilitate their lives in ophthalmic optics. Additionally, he has volunteered as a Speaker (without compensation) in multiple states, sharing his knowledge and experiences with fellow professionals. He is the recipient of the Helen Keller benefactor award for his outreach volunteer work to help the needy in eye care. By engaging in these activities, he aims to bring unity and advancement to the Opticianry community worldwide. In addition, I has volunteered at the Oregon Food Bank (Charitable Organization) to feed challenged families.