Dr. Coates grew up in Michigan and graduated from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Information Systems. He graduated optometry school from the State University of New York College of Optometry where he also completed a Family Practice/Ocular Disease Residency. His optometric interests include pediatrics, vision therapy, and participating and coordinating optometric service learning/mission trips. He is married and has one daughter. Personal interests include: tennis, music, reading, travel.