About

Board Members

Dean Thompson - Chair

Dean has been an Optician Contact Lens Practitioner for the past thirty-three years, during this time he has taken on many different responsibilities ranging from his starting position as a Lab Technician to varying management positions ranging from being a Lab Manager to an owner of an Optical clinic and as a subject matter expert for the implementation of the new SAIT Optical program. In addition to serving two terms with the ACAO Dean has continued  to volunteer his time as a preceptor for Optical students and as a guest speaker engagements with the Optical students in the SAIT Optical program.

As the Association steering committee Dean was part of a team responsible for researching the feasibility and eventual implementation of the new Association of Opticians of Alberta. The transition from the Government imposed separation of the ACAO into two separate organizations has been a work of passion for the Optical industry, his hopes are that all Opticians in Alberta and western Canada will see the value of having a Strong independent western voice in Canada, By becoming a member of the AOA we can make positive and meaningful change in the Optical industry.

When Dean is not all consumed by all things optical he likes to volunteer his time being a team member with Optical Mission team serving people in need in developing countries like Ecuador and Peru. I also have a passion for landscape and travel photography.

Rick Miller - Third Party Government Negotiations (Chair)

Rick has been in the Optical industry for 35 years, He has worked in Independent Optical's, Chains, Box Stores and in an Ophthalmology Clinic. He has taken spectacle, contact lens, manual refracting and automated refracting courses from Nait, and Ophthalmic Assistant from Sait. He has served many years with the both the College and the Association of Opticians here in Alberta. He is currently an owner and Refracting Optician at Southern Optical Ltd. in Lethbridge.   

He is also currently serving on the Association of Opticians of Alberta in the role of negotiation committee chair. 

When he is not performing his duties at his business, and for the Association, he likes to go camping, and enjoy time with his wife, schnauzer, and four grandkids.

Amanda Neal - Vice Chair & Social Media Coordinator

Amanda is a passionate and dedicated Licensed Optician, Contact Lens Practitioner. A graduate of the SAIT Optician Program—where she developed a strong foundation in clinical care—Amanda has grown into leadership roles that reflect both her technical expertise and her commitment to the profession. With a special interest in specialty contact lenses and dry eye management. She is known for her ability to balance high-quality patient care with efficient clinic operations, and for fostering trusting relationships with both patients and colleagues.

Amanda is also deeply involved in advancing the optical profession in Alberta. She serves as Vice Chair and Social Media Coordinator for the Association of Opticians of Alberta (AOA), where she leads initiatives to promote the role of Opticians through education, advocacy, and professional outreach. Her journey with the AOA began with a desire to expand the organization’s social media presence—an initiative that has since evolved into a larger role in supporting and growing the voice of Opticians across the province.

Inspired by the mentorship and support she received during her time at SAIT, Amanda actively gives back to the next generation of optical professionals. She volunteers at SAIT during final exams and lab sessions, helping students navigate practical challenges and develop confidence in their skills. She also serves as Vice Chair of the Vision Programs Advisory Committee at SAIT, contributing to curriculum development and student success.

Whether she’s mentoring future Opticians, implementing new patient care protocols, or advocating for the profession, Amanda remains focused on delivering excellence and driving positive change in the industry. Outside of work, Amanda enjoys hiking, traveling, and discovering new food with friends—always striving to find balance and inspiration in both her professional and personal life.

The Board of Directors is elected by members:

The Board of Directors governs the association. Elected council members are Registered Opticians in good standing; these are your peers in the field, chosen by you, and dedicated to serving you.

Elections

More information to come.