Executive Business Showcase: Dr. Michelle

Company:
TRES VISION Group

Title:
Doctor of Optometry

Years in industry:
19

Area of expertise:
Soft contact lens fits with a focus on health safety and preventative maintenance. Specializes in monovision and multifocal lenses, as well as contacts to accommodate conditions like astigmatism.

Community involvement:
Brevard Rocks FL, Victory Baptist Church and SPCA of Brevard 

Why did you choose this career path?
I always knew I wanted to be a doctor, I just didn’t know exactly what path I would take. Eventually I crossed paths with a close friend who also happened to be an optometrist, and once I saw what he did, I knew that I would love to do that. I loved the idea of focusing on and learning all about this one part of the body — the eyes. 

Why were you drawn to TRES VISION? 
Aside from their great reputation, I knew from personal experience and from peer accolades  that Dr. Tres was an amazing doctor. Before joining this team, I had tried corporate optometry for a bit, and I just knew I could do more for people at a place like TRES VISION. Here, we treat disease, discomfort, irritation — but we also relieve fear and anxiety by telling patients what’s really going on, and providing the solutions to treat or manage the issue.  

How would you describe your approach to patient care?
Slow and steady. I like to spend time with each patient and listen to their concerns. I think when I combine that careful listening with the knowledge I gained while earning my degree and my experience, that’s when I am best equipped to treat and care for my patients.

Outside of work, what are some of your favorite things to do?
I’m learning to ride a motorcycle right now, and I’ve only fallen once! I also do some rock climbing and surfing, and I’d love to get out there on the water more often. And I love volunteering, especially at the SPCA. 

Advice to others about work, life, community:
Listen to your elders. They’ve been around a long time, and their wisdom is true. Be grateful when they share that with you. 

What do you love about your work?
Definitely getting to see the smiles on our patients’ faces. To see that they have that sense of relief and peace, and to know that they are leaving here happy, that is so rewarding. 

What inspires you?
Being out in nature, surrounded by the beauty of it, has always inspired me. I live right on the ocean and it’s so calming to just look out on the water and reflect and center. 

What’s some great advice you have received?
My father’s advice has always stuck with me: “Do an honest job for an honest wage, and do it with a smile, and you can never go wrong.” 

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