#USA #Jersey City #cataract surgery #HelpMeSee #Doug May

Doug May Takes on Leadership Role at HelpMeSee

On October 1, 2026, Doug May officially assumed the position of President and CEO of HelpMeSee, a pioneering nonprofit that focuses on eradicating cataract blindness through innovative training methods borrowed from the aviation industry. Previously, Doug held the role of Chief Operating Officer within the organization, and he stepped into his new leadership role on September 16, 2026.

HelpMeSee was founded on the principle that the rigorous training methodologies that made commercial aviation safe could also be applied to cataract surgery. Doug’s extensive background in aviation, beginning with his career as a test pilot for experimental flights, has informed his understanding of high-risk environments and the necessity for continuous improvement in surgical techniques. Prior to joining HelpMeSee, Doug spent several years at FlightSafety International where he honed his skills in developing operational excellence and strategic partnerships.

In his new role, Doug will lead the organization's efforts to train clinicians in Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS), a highly effective procedure that restores sight to individuals suffering from cataract-induced blindness. This technique is not only successful but also significantly more affordable than conventional alternatives, which allows for wider access to essential care.

Jim Ueltschi, co-founder and Chair of HelpMeSee, expressed confidence in Doug’s abilities, stating, "Since joining our leadership team, Doug has demonstrated excellent operational leadership, strategic vision, and a strong commitment to our mission. He is the ideal person to guide HelpMeSee as we rapidly expand our simulation-based surgical training programs worldwide and advance our efforts to combat blindness caused by cataracts."

HelpMeSee’s training system uniquely combines high-fidelity virtual reality simulators with realistic haptic technology, offering a competency-based curriculum led by experienced instructors. Trainees engage in an extensive e-learning program before using the simulation tools to practice surgical steps repeatedly. This method not only accelerates the learning curve but also ensures trainees receive objective performance evaluations and personalized feedback from their instructors, achieving the necessary skills far quicker than traditional training methods.

In his prior role at FlightSafety International, Doug was responsible for overseeing operations and strategic partnerships, managing a network of training centers, and expanding the use of immersive technologies including virtual reality to enhance pilot training. His impressive track record includes leadership positions at Textron Aviation, Bell Helicopter, and Bombardier.

"It is truly an honor to lead HelpMeSee and to build upon the vision pioneered by Jim and Al Ueltschi," Doug said. "Simulation has revolutionized aviation training, empowering individuals to acquire and demonstrate crucial skills before lives are on the line. We aim to replicate this foundational principle in the training for cataract surgery. Our mission is to collaborate with partners globally to equip more cataract specialists with the skills and confidence required to restore eyesight in their communities."

Cataract blindness affects around 100 million people globally. HelpMeSee is committed to removing this burden by harnessing realistic simulations and competency-based training approaches drawn from the commercial aviation world, delivering meaningful outcomes at a fraction of the cost of traditional methods. With over 40 simulators and 19 training centers around the world, HelpMeSee collaborates with governments, universities, and innovators to address the global cataract blindness crisis.

Founded by Al and Jim Ueltschi, HelpMeSee aims to train surgeons using established methods from pilot training to ensure quality and consistency in surgical outcomes. Al Ueltschi, a legend in the aviation industry, was the founder of FlightSafety International and co-founder of Orbis International, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to fighting avoidable blindness, particularly in developing nations.

For more information, please visit helpmesee.org. For inquiries, contact Amanda Kronberg at 720-220-9882.