The Canadian Certified Optometric Assistant (CCOA) program requires all students attend a two-day workshop that provides hands-on training. These workshops are held across Canada between January and the end of March. Workshop registration is included in the CCOA program fee.
The workshop includes six different sessions:
- Contact Lenses
- Pretesting
- Lensometry
- Frame Selection & Adjustment
- Spectacle Measurements & Repairs
- Lens Materials & Coatings
Workshop Locations
Western Canada: CCOA workshops will alternate between Alberta and British Columbia in January of each year however may be subject to change based on the distribution of registrations, at the discretion of CAO.
Two separate workshops will be offered in 2025 at the Westin Wall Center - Vancouver Airport - in Richmond, BC. (January 17-18, 2025 or January 19-20, 2025)
Central Canada: CCOA workshops are typically held in or around the city of Toronto in February of each year. Locations may vary across Ontario, at the discretion of CAO.
Two separate workshops will be held in 2025 at the Sheraton Parkway North in Vaughan, ON. (February 7-8, 2025 or February 9-10, 2025).
Eastern Canada: CCOA workshop is typically held in Halifax, NS in March of each year however may be subject to change based on the distribution of registrations, at the discretion of CAO.
The 2025 Eastern workshop will exceptionally take place in Halifax, NS, in conjunction with the CAO congress on July 5-6, 2025 at the Halifax Convention Center.
Atelier AOCC: This CCOA Workshop - offered in French only - is held in Montreal in March of each year however may be subject to influence based on the distribution of registrations, at the discretion of the CAO.
The dates and location for the Montreal Workshop will be available in October 2025.
Students are divided into equal groups and rotate through each of the sessions over the two-day period. Approximately 90% of each session involves hands-on learning.
The workshops, in conjunction with the nine CCOA learning modules, offer students a comprehensive understanding of the optometric field. They also provide an opportunity to practice procedures that may not be performed regularly, learn from industry professionals, and ask questions in a safe and relaxed environment.
The workshops are both educational and enjoyable. They allow students to meet and interact with each other, learn from different practices, and acquire new tips and tricks to apply in their office.
Additionally, current CCOAs who need continuing education credits, or a refresher are encouraged to attend the workshops. A registration fee will apply.