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Ophthalmic Medical Technologists

SOC 29-2099.05Job Zone 3 · Medium Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers ophthalmic diagnostic testing, patient history collection, refractive measurement, medication administration, and ultrasound biometry in outpatient ophthalmology clinics, specialty practices, and ambulatory surgery centers at the Job Zone 3 preparation level.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Tonometry equipment — perform basic intraocular pressure measurements under direct supervision in an outpatient ophthalmology clinic.
  2. Patient medical histories — collect and document standard intake information by following structured intake protocols in a clinical setting.
  3. Visual acuity charts and near-vision cards — administer distance and near visual acuity tests under technician oversight in a standard exam lane.
  4. Lensometers — identify and operate basic lens-power measurement instruments with step-by-step guidance in an optical dispensary or clinic.
  5. Topical ophthalmic medications — assist in administering prescribed eye drops following written protocols under supervising clinician direction.
  6. Ultrasound biometry equipment — recognize A-scan and B-scan device components and observe their setup under senior technologist guidance.
  7. Ocular measurement procedures — learn and replicate axial length measurement steps on cooperative patients under direct clinical supervision.
  8. Refractive error documentation — record patient prescription data accurately into electronic medical records following established data-entry guidelines.
  9. Medical software platforms — navigate electronic health record systems to retrieve and log basic patient information in a clinical workflow.
  10. Patient communication skills — greet, orient, and reassure patients during routine ophthalmic testing using clear, professional language in a clinic environment.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Tonometry and tonography tests — conduct intraocular pressure measurements independently and flag abnormal readings for ophthalmologist review in a busy outpatient clinic.
  2. Comprehensive patient histories — obtain, verify, and document complete ocular and systemic medical histories with minimal oversight in a multi-provider practice.
  3. Visual acuity assessments — administer and record near, distance, pinhole, and dynamic visual acuity tests accurately across varied patient populations in a clinical exam suite.
  4. Lensometer readings — measure and record spectacle lens power routinely and detect discrepancies between prescriptions and actual lens parameters in an optical lab.
  5. Refractive error corrections — apply standard formulas to calculate corrective lens prescriptions from refraction data in routine clinical cases.
  6. Ophthalmic medications — administer topical and oral ophthalmic medications per physician orders, monitor patients for immediate adverse reactions in a clinical setting.
  7. A-scan ultrasound biometry — collect axial length measurements using ultrasound equipment to support intraocular lens power calculations in a pre-surgical workflow.
  8. Anatomical ocular measurements — perform measurements of the eye and periocular tissue, including axial length, and integrate results into patient records with routine accuracy.
  9. Time management in clinical flow — coordinate patient scheduling, testing sequences, and exam-lane turnover to maintain efficient throughput in a high-volume ophthalmology practice.
  10. Instructional support for patients — explain post-procedure care instructions and medication regimens clearly to patients and caregivers using appropriate health literacy strategies.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Advanced tonography interpretation — perform and independently interpret tonometry and tonography results, correlating findings with patient history to inform glaucoma management in a specialty clinic.
  2. Full-scope ocular diagnostics — conduct the complete range of anatomical and functional ocular measurements, including B-scan ultrasonography, without oversight across routine and complex cases.
  3. Non-routine visual acuity evaluation — select and administer specialized acuity protocols for pediatric, low-vision, or cognitively impaired patients, adapting methods to individual needs in a tertiary care setting.
  4. Refractive correction calculations — calculate refractive corrections independently for complex prescriptions, including high myopia and astigmatism cases, using clinical data and mathematical reasoning.
  5. Diagnostic ultrasound operation — obtain and evaluate A-scan and B-scan ultrasonography images autonomously, identifying pathological findings and communicating results to supervising ophthalmologists.
  6. Medication management — administer ophthalmic medications, recognize contraindications, and apply critical thinking when patient responses deviate from expected outcomes in a clinical environment.
  7. Clinical documentation quality — review, audit, and correct patient records and diagnostic data for completeness and accuracy in an electronic health record system across an entire patient panel.
  8. Complex problem solving in diagnostics — analyze ambiguous or conflicting diagnostic findings, integrate multiple data sources, and recommend follow-up testing in a multi-specialty ophthalmology practice.
  9. Patient history synthesis — compile comprehensive medical and ocular histories, identify clinically significant patterns, and flag high-risk findings for urgent ophthalmologist attention.
  10. Intraoperative measurement support — provide precise pre-surgical biometry and lens-power data to surgical teams, ensuring measurement accuracy for optimal intraocular lens selection in an ambulatory surgery center.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Diagnostic protocol development — design and implement standardized ophthalmic testing protocols and clinical workflows that optimize accuracy and efficiency across a multi-site ophthalmology group.
  2. Staff training and competency assurance — develop curricula and mentor emerging and developing technologists in tonometry, ultrasonography, and refraction techniques within an organizational training program.
  3. Quality improvement leadership — lead systematic audits of diagnostic measurement accuracy and patient documentation practices, driving measurable improvements in clinical outcomes across the department.
  4. Advanced technology integration — evaluate, select, and oversee implementation of new ophthalmic diagnostic technologies, including ultrasound biometry platforms and medical software systems, at the organizational level.
  5. Scope-of-practice governance — establish and update policies governing technologist duties, medication administration, and patient safety standards in alignment with state regulations and accreditation requirements.
  6. Organizational performance monitoring — analyze practice-wide diagnostic throughput, error rates, and patient satisfaction data to inform strategic decisions by clinical leadership.
  7. Interdisciplinary collaboration leadership — serve as the primary liaison between ophthalmic technologists, ophthalmologists, optometrists, and administrative staff to coordinate seamless patient care delivery.
  8. Learning strategy design — create competency-based learning pathways and assessment tools for onboarding new hires, tailored to the Job Zone 3 preparation level of incoming technologists.
  9. Refractive services program management — oversee the full refractive diagnostic workflow, from measurement to prescription calculation, ensuring consistent accuracy and patient safety across a high-volume practice.
  10. Organizational knowledge transfer — author clinical reference guides, standard operating procedures, and best-practice documentation that codify institutional expertise in ophthalmic diagnostic technology for department-wide use.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-flagged diagnostic alerts — recognizes when AI-assisted imaging software highlights potential anomalies in fundus or OCT scans, escalating findings to the supervising ophthalmologist rather than interpreting results independently Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Patient history intake support — uses AI-powered intake tools to prompt structured collection of ocular and systemic history, cross-checking entries against the patient's verbal account before finalizing documentation WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Intraocular pressure data logging — routes tonometry and tonography readings into AI-integrated EHR systems that flag out-of-range values, then applies clinical judgment to determine whether immediate physician notification is warranted Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Visual acuity test interpretation — supplements standard near and distance acuity measurements with AI trend analysis across serial visits, communicating pattern changes clearly to the care team using precise clinical language Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Ocular biometry workflow integration — directs AI tools to cross-reference axial length and keratometry measurements against normative databases, reviewing algorithmic outputs before approving values for IOL power calculations Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Medication administration documentation — uses AI-assisted charting to auto-populate topical and oral ophthalmic medication records, verifying dosage accuracy and patient allergy flags against the live record before sign-off WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Patient communication scripting — adapts AI-drafted patient education summaries on conditions such as glaucoma or macular degeneration to match individual health literacy levels, delivering explanations through direct, empathetic conversation Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. AI tool evaluation and protocol governance — assesses new AI diagnostic or imaging assistance platforms for clinical accuracy, workflow fit, and regulatory compliance, recommending adoption or rejection to department leadership Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Complex case triage orchestration — synthesizes AI-generated risk scores from multiple ophthalmic tests with patient history and social context to construct a prioritized, clinician-ready case summary that accelerates physician decision-making Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. Training and quality oversight — coaches junior technologists on the boundary between AI-augmented task execution and independent clinical judgment, auditing AI-assisted records for systematic errors and ensuring documentation meets professional standards WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Speaking
Score: 48.5 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Human-Technology Interaction
human_technology_interaction
Sources:Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication11 statements
Emerging
  1. Patient history intake — elicits basic ocular and systemic health information through structured verbal questioning during initial patient encounters Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Diagnostic procedure explanation — describes the purpose of tonometry or visual acuity testing to patients using accessible, non-clinical language O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Medication instruction delivery — explains topical ophthalmic or oral medication administration steps clearly to patients with varying health literacy levels Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Clinical documentation — records patient medical histories and ocular measurements in accurate, standardized written form within the electronic health record O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Team relay communication — reports collected diagnostic data, including lensometer readings and intraocular pressure values, to supervising ophthalmologists using precise clinical terminology Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-modal patient communication — adapts verbal, written, and demonstrative communication styles to accommodate patients with visual impairment, anxiety, or language barriers during ophthalmic examinations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Diagnostic findings relay — presents axial length measurements, refractive error calculations, and ultrasound biometry results to the care team in a concise, clinically accurate format O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Patient education delivery — instructs patients on post-examination care, medication schedules, and follow-up requirements with confirmed comprehension checks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cross-disciplinary communication leadership — serves as primary liaison between ophthalmology, optometry, and administrative teams to ensure seamless information transfer across the full patient care cycle Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Staff communication coaching — mentors junior technologists in structured patient interviewing techniques, active listening practices, and clinical documentation standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Complex case narrative — constructs comprehensive written summaries of multi-visit diagnostic findings, including B-scan ultrasonography and visual field data, for referring physicians and specialist consultations O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
2Leadership10 statements
Emerging
  1. Procedure readiness initiative — independently prepares examination lanes, equipment, and diagnostic instruments before patient arrival without supervisor prompting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Patient flow ownership — takes responsibility for moving patients through scheduled ophthalmic testing sequences in a timely and organized manner Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Junior staff guidance — demonstrates correct tonometry, lensometry, and visual acuity testing techniques to newly onboarded ophthalmic assistants during supervised training sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Quality check initiation — identifies and flags equipment calibration discrepancies or incomplete patient records before they reach the supervising ophthalmologist Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Clinical workflow coordination — directs the sequencing of diagnostic testing for high-volume patient schedules, balancing efficiency with thoroughness across multiple examination rooms Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Protocol stewardship — takes accountability for maintaining compliance with ophthalmic testing protocols and medication administration standards within the technician team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Mentorship of developing technologists — leads hands-on skill sessions covering A-scan biometry, pinhole acuity testing, and refractive error calculation for technologists in early career stages O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Department process leadership — designs and implements improved patient diagnostic workflows that reduce chair time while preserving data accuracy for complex ocular assessments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Technologist development program — constructs and facilitates structured competency development plans for ophthalmic technician staff, tracking progression from emerging to applying performance levels Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Crisis response leadership — assumes charge of patient management during unexpected clinical events, coordinating technician roles and escalating appropriately to physician oversight Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition10 statements
Emerging
  1. Skill gap recognition — identifies personal areas of uncertainty in ocular measurement techniques, such as axial length measurement or B-scan ultrasonography, and seeks clarification proactively Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Testing sequence self-monitoring — reflects on the order of ophthalmic tests performed and adjusts personal workflow when steps are missed or repeated Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Error pattern awareness — recognizes recurring personal mistakes in refractive error calculations or lensometer readings and applies targeted self-correction strategies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning strategy selection — chooses appropriate study resources, including clinical manuals and continuing education modules, to address identified knowledge gaps in ophthalmic medicine Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Diagnostic self-evaluation — reviews own collected ocular measurements against expected normative values to assess result plausibility before submitting data to the supervising physician Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cognitive load management — monitors personal attentional demands during high-volume clinic days and applies deliberate strategies to maintain measurement accuracy across all patients Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Reflective practice — evaluates the effectiveness of patient communication and testing approaches after complex encounters and adjusts technique for subsequent patients Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Expertise modeling — articulates personal diagnostic reasoning processes transparently to mentees, making implicit clinical judgment in ophthalmic testing explicit and teachable Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Continuous calibration — systematically evaluates own performance data across patient cohorts to identify drift in measurement consistency and initiates targeted skill recalibration Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Metacognitive culture building — fosters a team norm of reflective self-assessment by introducing structured post-clinic debriefs that prompt technologists to evaluate their own diagnostic decisions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking11 statements
Emerging
  1. Result plausibility check — compares intraocular pressure readings against typical ranges and flags values that appear inconsistent with patient presentation for technician or physician review Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Test selection reasoning — identifies which visual acuity test variant — near, distance, pinhole, or dynamic — is appropriate given a patient's presenting complaint and age O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Measurement conflict resolution — evaluates discrepancies between successive tonometry readings or axial length measurements and determines whether retesting or escalation is warranted Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Refractive calculation verification — cross-checks calculated refractive error corrections against lensometer data and patient-reported visual symptoms before presenting findings to the ophthalmologist O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Patient history analysis — identifies clinically relevant details in documented medical histories, such as systemic conditions affecting ocular health, and prioritizes them for physician attention Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Diagnostic data integration — synthesizes findings from multiple ophthalmic tests — including B-scan ultrasonography, visual field testing, and tonography — to construct a coherent clinical picture for physician review Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Assumption challenge — questions whether patient-reported symptoms align with objective measurement data and raises inconsistencies rather than defaulting to patient or instrument confirmation bias Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Protocol appropriateness evaluation — assesses whether standard testing protocols are suitable for atypical patients, such as those with corneal irregularities, and recommends modifications to the supervising ophthalmologist Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Evidence-based practice integration — evaluates emerging ophthalmic diagnostic research and applies validated improvements to technician-level testing and measurement protocols Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Complex case reasoning — analyzes multi-variable diagnostic scenarios involving conflicting ocular measurements and systemic medication effects to generate well-reasoned differential data sets for physician decision-making Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Quality assurance audit — critically examines patterns in departmental measurement error rates, identifies root causes in technique or equipment, and develops corrective action plans Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration11 statements
Emerging
  1. Team task support — assists co-technologists with patient setup, equipment preparation, and room turnover during high-volume ophthalmic clinic sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Physician handoff participation — provides clear verbal summaries of completed diagnostic tests and preliminary findings to the supervising ophthalmologist at the point of patient transfer O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Interdisciplinary data sharing — collaborates with optometrists and ophthalmologists to ensure ocular measurement data, including axial length and lensometry results, is available and accurately interpreted before patient consultations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Administrative coordination — works with scheduling and billing staff to align diagnostic testing sequences with appointment structures and insurance documentation requirements O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Peer skill reinforcement — partners with fellow technologists to cross-check ultrasound biometry results and confirm measurement consistency across shared patient caseloads Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Care team integration — functions as a consistent and reliable contributor within the ophthalmology care team, ensuring diagnostic data is complete, accurate, and available before each physician encounter Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Conflict navigation — addresses disagreements about testing sequence or patient management priorities with co-technologists through evidence-based discussion and deference to established clinical protocol Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Cross-functional patient support — collaborates with ophthalmic nurses, surgical coordinators, and front-desk staff to ensure continuity of patient experience from intake through diagnostic completion Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Collaborative protocol development — partners with ophthalmologists and senior technologists to co-create updated diagnostic testing workflows that reflect current best practices in ophthalmic technology Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Multidisciplinary team facilitation — leads case coordination meetings involving ophthalmology, optometry, and primary care representatives to align on complex patient diagnostic plans Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Collaborative training design — co-develops competency assessment tools with clinical educators and department leadership to standardize ophthalmic technologist skill evaluation across the practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
6Character11 statements
Emerging
  1. Patient confidentiality adherence — maintains strict protection of patient ocular health records and diagnostic data in compliance with HIPAA standards during all documentation activities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional punctuality — arrives prepared for scheduled clinic shifts and patient testing sessions, demonstrating reliability to the care team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Error accountability — acknowledges and immediately reports measurement errors or medication administration mistakes to the supervising ophthalmologist without minimization or concealment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Patient dignity preservation — maintains respectful, non-judgmental conduct with patients of all backgrounds, visual abilities, and anxiety levels throughout ophthalmic examinations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Scope of practice integrity — operates strictly within the certified ophthalmic medical technologist scope and escalates clinical decisions that require physician authority Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Ethical data integrity — records all ocular measurements — including intraocular pressure, axial length, and refractive calculations — as objectively obtained without alteration or rounding for convenience Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional boundary maintenance — navigates patients' requests for diagnostic interpretation by accurately representing the technologist role and directing clinical questions to the supervising physician Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Consistent professionalism — models clinic behavioral standards, including punctuality, attire, and patient interaction protocols, reliably across all care settings and patient volumes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical culture stewardship — raises systemic concerns about documentation accuracy, patient consent practices, or medication protocols through appropriate channels and advocates for corrective action Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Role model conduct — consistently demonstrates the highest standard of patient-centered, ethically grounded practice and is recognized by peers and physicians as a benchmark for professional behavior Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Accountability leadership — establishes team norms around transparent error reporting and quality improvement by modeling personal accountability and creating psychologically safe channels for issue escalation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity10 statements
Emerging
  1. Patient comfort adaptation — generates alternative approaches to patient positioning or instruction delivery when standard methods fail to produce reliable ocular measurements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Problem-solving in testing — devises workaround strategies for conducting visual acuity testing on patients who cannot respond to standard optotype charts due to cognitive or communication limitations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Equipment limitation navigation — identifies creative solutions for obtaining usable A-scan biometry or B-scan ultrasonography data when patient anatomy or cooperation presents challenges Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Patient education innovation — develops tailored visual aids or verbal analogies to explain ophthalmic conditions and diagnostic procedures to patients with low health literacy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Workflow optimization ideation — proposes novel scheduling or testing sequencing approaches that reduce patient wait time while maintaining diagnostic completeness across a full ophthalmic clinic day Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Adaptive testing protocol design — creates patient-specific testing modifications for individuals with physical disabilities, extreme refractive errors, or prior ocular surgeries that standard protocols do not accommodate Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Training material development — designs creative instructional resources, including visual checklists and simulation exercises, for teaching tonometry and lensometry techniques to new technologists Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Diagnostic process innovation — pioneers new approaches to integrating multiple ophthalmic measurement modalities that improve data richness and reduce redundant patient visits Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Department improvement ideation — generates and champions creative operational improvements in the ophthalmic clinic — from room layout to instrument workflow — that are adopted as standard practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Research contribution — develops novel data collection approaches or measurement protocols in collaboration with ophthalmologists that contribute to clinical research or quality improvement publications Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset11 statements
Emerging
  1. Feedback receptivity — receives corrective instruction from supervising ophthalmologists on tonometry technique or documentation practices and applies adjustments in subsequent patient encounters Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. New technology openness — approaches unfamiliar ophthalmic diagnostic equipment, such as updated ultrasound biometry platforms, with curiosity rather than avoidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Continuing education pursuit — actively engages with JCAHPO continuing medical education requirements and additional ophthalmic training resources to expand technical competency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Setback reframing — treats patient encounters where measurements could not be obtained as learning opportunities rather than failures, analyzing what could be done differently Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Peer learning engagement — seeks feedback from experienced technologists on complex diagnostic cases and incorporates observed techniques into personal practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Skill stretch acceptance — volunteers for complex or unfamiliar diagnostic procedures — such as corneal topography or electrodiagnostic testing — to expand clinical capability beyond routine assignments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Performance feedback integration — systematically applies physician and peer feedback on measurement accuracy and patient communication to achieve measurable improvement in clinical performance over time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Change adaptation — adjusts effectively to new clinical protocols, electronic health record systems, or regulatory requirements without a decrease in patient care quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Learning culture cultivation — fosters a growth-oriented environment within the technologist team by normalizing skill challenges, sharing lessons from difficult cases, and celebrating developmental progress Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Mastery-driven self-challenge — pursues advanced ophthalmic technologist certifications and subspecialty competencies beyond minimum credentialing requirements as a demonstration of commitment to continuous mastery Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Failure-to-learning conversion — leads post-incident debriefs following diagnostic errors or adverse patient events, transforming the experience into structured, team-wide learning without blame Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness10 statements
Emerging
  1. Patient anxiety awareness — recognizes signs of patient distress or discomfort during ophthalmic procedures such as tonometry or dilation and pauses to address them before continuing Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Task focus maintenance — sustains attention on precise ocular measurement steps, such as axial length data entry, without allowing environmental clinic noise to introduce recording errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Emotional regulation in difficult encounters — manages personal frustration during challenging patient interactions — such as non-cooperative or highly anxious patients — and maintains clinical composure throughout the examination Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Intentional pacing — monitors personal tempo during high-volume clinic days to avoid rushing through diagnostic steps that require precision, such as intraocular pressure measurement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Present-moment diagnostic attention — maintains full attentional focus during each patient's ophthalmic testing sequence, preventing measurement errors caused by task-switching or anticipatory thinking about subsequent appointments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Stress-aware performance — recognizes personal stress indicators during demanding clinic conditions and applies deliberate regulation strategies to preserve measurement accuracy and patient communication quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Empathic presence — maintains genuine attentiveness to patient verbal and nonverbal cues throughout history taking and diagnostic testing, noticing subtle indicators of pain, confusion, or fear Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mindful team climate modeling — demonstrates intentional, regulated presence during high-pressure clinical situations, influencing team composure and reducing errors during complex multi-patient diagnostic sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Attentional leadership — coaches junior technologists in focus management and emotional regulation techniques specific to high-volume ophthalmic clinic environments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Systemic mindfulness integration — advocates for and implements structured pause protocols within clinic workflows — such as verification checks between diagnostic tests — that embed mindful practice into standard operating procedure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude11 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical demand endurance — sustains effective performance during extended clinic shifts requiring prolonged standing, repetitive equipment operation, and continuous patient throughput Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Difficult patient persistence — continues to attempt reliable ocular measurements with non-cooperative or uncomfortable patients, adjusting technique before seeking escalation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. High-volume clinic resilience — maintains diagnostic accuracy and patient communication quality across full-day schedules with minimal breaks and high consecutive patient loads Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Uncertainty tolerance — proceeds confidently with standard ophthalmic testing protocols when clinical findings are ambiguous, without premature escalation or diagnostic avoidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Critique endurance — receives critical feedback on measurement technique or documentation from supervising physicians without becoming defensive or disengaged from subsequent tasks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Adverse condition steadiness — maintains patient-centered care quality and diagnostic precision during clinic disruptions, including equipment failures, scheduling crises, or unexpected patient emergencies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Long-term skill development persistence — sustains deliberate effort toward mastering advanced ophthalmic diagnostic techniques — such as B-scan ultrasonography — over extended training periods despite slow progress Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Emotionally demanding case management — provides composed, professional care to patients receiving difficult diagnoses, managing personal emotional response without compromising technical performance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Systemic adversity navigation — leads the technologist team through prolonged periods of clinic-wide stress — such as staffing shortages or technology transitions — while sustaining team morale and diagnostic standard adherence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Courageous quality advocacy — raises concerns about substandard diagnostic practices or protocol deviations to clinical leadership despite potential interpersonal or professional risk Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Resilience role modeling — shares personal experiences of professional setbacks and recovery strategies with developing technologists, normalizing persistence as a core professional competency in ophthalmic medical technology Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Angiographer · Angiography Technologist · Certified Diagnostic Ophthalmic Sonographer (CDOS) · Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) · Certified Ophthalmic Technologist · Certified Retinal Angiographer · Medical Technologist · Ocular Care Technologist · Ophthalmic Diagnostic Imager · Ophthalmic Echographer · Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (Ophthalmic Medical Tech) · Ophthalmic Photographer
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
SpeakingActive ListeningSocial PerceptivenessService OrientationCritical ThinkingReading ComprehensionCoordinationInstructingWritingActive LearningLearning StrategiesMonitoringJudgment and Decision MakingTime ManagementComplex Problem Solving
Knowledge domains
Customer and Personal ServiceMedicine and DentistryEnglish LanguageEducation and TrainingMathematicsAdministrative
Abilities
Oral ExpressionNear VisionOral ComprehensionProblem SensitivitySpeech ClaritySpeech RecognitionWritten ComprehensionInductive ReasoningWritten ExpressionDeductive Reasoning
Work styles
Attention to DetailDependabilityCautiousnessCooperationSocial OrientationEmpathy
Technology
Medical softwareComputer aided design CAD softwareElectronic mail softwareWeb platform development softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwareWord processing softwareEnterprise resource planning ERP softwareInternet browser software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Conduct tonometry or tonography tests to measure intraocular pressure.
  2. Take and document patients' medical histories.
  3. Take anatomical or functional ocular measurements, such as axial length measurements, of the eye or surrounding tissue.
  4. Measure visual acuity, including near, distance, pinhole, or dynamic visual acuity, using appropriate tests.
  5. Administer topical ophthalmic or oral medications.
  6. Measure and record lens power, using lensometers.
  7. Calculate corrections for refractive errors.
  8. Collect ophthalmic measurements or other diagnostic information, using ultrasound equipment, such as A-scan ultrasound biometry or B-scan ultrasonography equipment.
CIP education codes
51.081251.081451.090351.090751.090851.091451.091551.091651.091751.092151.092251.092351.099951.1011

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.