Ophthalmic Medical Technician

Dr. Keith Carlson, MD, MMM
Medical Director  

We are thrilled to introduce Dr. Keith Carlson as the new Medical Director of the OPMT Program. With over 15 years of experience in private practice ophthalmology, Dr. Carlson brings both medical expertise and a deep commitment to education to the program. A graduate of the University of North Dakota with ophthalmology training from the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Carlson is currently practicing at Claris Eye Care and Surgery in the Twin Cities. His teaching philosophy centers on helping students reach their full potential, and his diverse background in academic, multispecialty, and private practice enriches our program with real-world insights. 

Kimberly Barblock, BA, COT
Program Director 

Kimberly Barblock brings over 30 years of experience as a technician and an administrator in private practice ophthalmology to her role as an instructor and program director for the OPMT program. Kim earned her COA and COT certifications in 1993 and 1995, respectively, followed by a BA in psychology, cum laude, from Hunter College in NYC. Her approach to teaching is rooted in the belief that every student is capable of success when given the right tools and support. Her Platinum Rule philosophy—treating others the way they would like to be treated—guides her personalized approach to education. 

Dr. Aaron Shukla, PhD, COMT (Ret.)
Program Advisor 

Dr. Aaron Shukla is a cornerstone of our OPMT Program, with over 20 years of experience in developing and managing two fully accredited ophthalmic programs at the COT and COMT levels. A published author, Dr. Shukla has delivered nearly 72 presentations at various continuing education meetings. His dedication and excellence in ophthalmic education have earned him numerous awards from IJCAHPO, ATPO, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, and Saint Catherine’s University. His expertise is unmatched, and his contributions to our curriculum have shaped the program into what it is today, ensuring our students receive the highest quality training, preparing them for successful careers in the field. 

Kimi Bragdon, BA, COT
Clinical Rotation Supervisor 

Kimi Bragdon brings a strong background in both science and education to the OPMT program. The valedictorian of her high school class, Kimi earned her biology degree from the University of Minnesota - Morris and worked as a research scientist for five years before returning to school at Saint Catherine’s University to obtain her COT certification. Kimi’s teaching philosophy emphasizes collaboration and high expectations, fostering a positive learning environment where students can excel. We are thrilled to have Kimi’s expertise and enthusiasm as part of our program. 

Angela DuChene, BA, COT
Instructor 

Angela DuChene has been a Certified Ophthalmic Technician since 2006, and her 18-year career at HealthPartners is a testament to her dedication to patient care. With a BA in psychology from Augsburg College, Angela’s teaching philosophy is to educate students in a way that resonates with their unique learning styles. She looks forward to every semester, eager to share her knowledge and passion for the field of ophthalmology. 

Holly Cheshier, CRA, OCT-C, COT, FOPS
Instructor 

In Holly’s 35-year career in ophthalmology, 28 years were spent honing her expertise in the retina subspecialty as the Supervisor of Imaging at Retinal Consultants of Minnesota. With 14 years of teaching experience, Holly has developed virtual training modules and organizational tools that have shaped the skills of countless imagers. She continues to contribute to the field as a speaker and a member of the Ophthalmic Photographers’ Society Board of Education. Holly’s teaching philosophy is guided by this quote: "The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away."  

Adam Melby, BA, COMT
Instructor 

Adam Melby’s 26-year career in ophthalmology has given him the opportunity to work in nearly every subspecialty, making him a versatile and well-rounded instructor. Adam earned his COMT certification shortly after completing the Ophthalmic Technician program at St. Paul Regions Hospital and later obtained a BA in Healthcare Management from Southern New Hampshire University. Adam’s teaching philosophy emphasizes hands-on learning and the importance of practice, ensuring that students gain the confidence and competence they need to excel in their careers. 

Angie Pederson
ATCC Enrollment Specialist 

As a member of the ATCC admissions and recruiting team for 11 years, Angie Pederson has been instrumental in raising awareness about the ophthalmic technician profession. Her passion for helping students find the right fit and prepare for a successful future is evident in everything she does. Whether she’s giving a campus tour, visiting a high school classroom, or helping a student navigate the enrollment process, Angie’s dedication to student success is unwavering.

At ATCC, we take immense pride in the exceptional faculty who elevate our Ophthalmic Medical Technician Program each day. Their collective knowledge, experience, and commitment to education provide our students with a rich learning environment where they can thrive. Our innovative hybrid-online model ensures that education is both accessible and flexible, allowing students to balance their studies with work and family life.

Discover more about our program and take the first step toward a rewarding career in eye care by visiting ATCC’s OPMT Program page: https://www.alextech.edu/OPMT. 

Clear Vision, Bright Futures: Educating Ophthalmic Technicians