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 - ABDO College

New College lecturer is very fit for purpose

Triathlon athlete Greg Cahill has a new role, as a lecturer at ABDO College. In addition to being an optician, he is also a coach and personal trainer who has represented Great Britain in triathlon and has raced in multiple Ironman Triathlons.

Greg began his optical career in an independent contact lens lab then moved into independent practice. He has worked in global manufacturing companies for contact lenses, eyewear and lenses. He has also been a locum working in the UK, Ireland and Europe. “I am proud to say that I have had the opportunity to work in almost every sector of the industry,” he revealed.

Greg was interested in the new position because he has always enjoyed training colleagues across the profession. “The role at the College attracted me because, being a qualified dispensing optician has always given me plenty of opportunities and experiences within a stable, diverse and ever-changing industry,” he said.

“I wanted to be a position where I can lecture, teach and inspire people to enjoy a rewarding career with the same, if not more, opportunities in their future,” he explained.

“I hope to achieve many things. Ultimately though, I hope my success will be through the college students achieving the qualifications they are working towards.”

Being a personal trainer has helped stand Greg in good stead for his new role. “I am very approachable, candid and have a good sense of humour. This definitely helps when things are getting tough,” he reflected.

“I also have a lot of industry experience and can apply both theoretical and practical elements of the syllabus to real world situations.”

Greg’s first visit to the College was for his interview. “I was in awe of the beautiful buildings and surrounding landscape. I could also see that the students were enjoying their classes in such a unique and fascinating location,” he said.

Greg thinks that lecturers need to be confident and patient and he believes the key attributes to becoming a lecturer are understanding the subject and having the ability to deliver lectures and practical sessions in different ways to keep things fresh.

For any dispensing optician, or contact lens optician, who might be interested in becoming a lecturer in the future, Greg advised: “If you have a passion for teaching, learning and presenting and want to ensure the longevity and high standards of the profession, get involved.”